The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has yesterday made clarification surrounding the controversy trailing the purported cancellation of the Visa-on-Arrival, VOA policy, saying the process was upgraded and not scrapped, as being rumored. Tunji-Ojo was communicated shortly by PEBEC Director-General, Princess Zahrah in Abuja after a closed-door meeting with the delegation of the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council in Abuja.
Zahra explained that the meeting was targeted to address concerns and clarify the government’s stance on the VOA initiative.
She also added that the development aligned with PEBEC’s efforts to simplify procedures and reduce bureaucratic constraints to doing business in Nigeria.
The VOA policy cancellation announced has stirred mixed reactions among investors and the international community in the past few days.
According to the minister, the new law would require pre-arrival clearance from Interpol, criminal record systems and other background-check agencies in real-time.
In his statement, Ojo said “The Visa on Arrival process is not being scrapped. Rather, it has been upgraded to improve efficiency and effectiveness. Travelers will still be able to apply online for short-stay visas, with approvals being granted within 24 to 48 hours.
The Minister added, “Once approved, the visa will be sent to the applicant’s email, eliminating the need for a physical sticker upon arrival. This enhanced system aims to cut out inefficiencies, allowing Nigeria to better automate and control the inflow of travelers.
“With this upgrade, the country takes another step towards improving its business environment and attracting foreign investment. This upgrade builds upon the existing online approval system, streamlining the process and enabling travelers to receive their approvals ahead of time” Tunji-Ojo concluded.