Nigeria cracks down on illegal migrants, August 1

DDM News

The Federal Government has announced strict measures against irregular migrants in Nigeria.

The enforcement of these measures will begin on August 1, 2025.

To facilitate compliance, a three-month amnesty programme will run from May 1 to July 31, 2025.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) revealed that during this period, migrants will have the opportunity to regularise their residency status.

The government will also introduce a new Expatriate Administration System to enhance immigration control.

Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, revealed these plans during a meeting in Abuja.

He made the announcement while addressing the Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA).

The government insists that this initiative is crucial for national security and economic stability.

Nigeria has struggled for years with challenges related to irregular migration.

The country’s porous borders have made it easy for undocumented migrants to enter and stay illegally.

Many businesses have been accused of employing foreign workers without proper documentation.

Past government efforts to curb illegal migration have been met with enforcement challenges.

Tunji-Ojo warned companies that obstruct immigration officials will face severe penalties.

“The era of companies blocking immigration laws is over,” he declared.

He emphasized that private businesses must cooperate with immigration authorities.

The government will no longer tolerate any attempts to prevent enforcement.

Companies must allow officials to verify the immigration status of their workers.

Strict penalties await businesses found guilty of violating immigration laws.

The government has also reviewed the cost of immigration services.

Tunji-Ojo admitted that current fees are outdated and unsustainable.

Following negotiations with NECA, a new fee structure has been agreed upon.

The revised fees will be officially announced before May 1, 2025.

These new charges, alongside the Expatriate Administration System, take effect on May 1.

The three-month amnesty period will also begin on that date.

Migrants must regularise their residency status before July 31, 2025.

By August 1, the government will begin strict enforcement.

Tunji-Ojo urged all affected individuals and companies to take advantage of the grace period.

Failure to comply will result in severe legal consequences.

These measures aim to strengthen Nigeria’s immigration system and border security.

The government argues that this will enhance national security and economic stability.

However, critics fear it could lead to mass deportations and economic disruptions.

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