The federal government has revealed that it has taken proactive measures to address the concerns raised with respect to the administration of expatriates in the country.
The permanent secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, declared Monday in Abuja that the Ministry is aware of the recent accusations made on national television on the administration of expatriates fees in the oil sector.
“The Ministry wishes to inform the public that these accusations are being taken seriously and that proactive measures have been taken to address concerns,” he said.
She recalled that the Ministry had previously announced a review of the approval authority for the quota of expatriates (EQ) and citizenship requests in a circular dated February 12, 2025.
Ajani added that under the new framework, all approvals are now managed by the minister and the permanent secretary, marking a quick and necessary change of his previous administration by the directors.
She declared that the review is aligned with the Ministry's commitment to improve transparency, responsibility and operational efficiency in the administration of expatriates and citizenship applications. It also seeks to address concerns related to possible abuse and irregularities within the system.
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The Interior Minister, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, together with the senior officials of the Ministry and the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, recently held a meeting with the Advisory Association of Nigerian Employers (NECA) in Lagos on March 4, 2025. The discussions focused on creating a business environment and protecting the interests of Nigerians and Nigeria.
After the meeting, a review committee was established, composed of representatives of the Ministry of Interior, the Nigeria immigration service and the private sector organized under Neca.
According to the minister, this committee has the task of examining the current policy of expatriates quotas and making recommendations for the necessary improvements.
“The minister once again assures the public that the Ministry remains to ensure that the administration of expatriate fees is fair, transparent and in the best interest of the Nigerians.
“In addition, the minister reiterated the Ministry's commitment to work with interested parties to address concerns and improve policies and procedures for the general growth and development of Nigeria,” the statement added.