The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has assured Nigerians that the ministry is committed to conducting a comprehensive review of migration and visa policies in collaboration with key stakeholders in the country. The goal of this effort is to simplify and streamline the processes for Nigerians both at home and abroad, bringing them in line with global standards.
The announcement came during a meeting on Tuesday in Abuja, where the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, led the commission’s management team on a courtesy visit. The statement regarding this development was made by NIDCOM spokesman, Abdur-Rahman Balogun.
Minister Tunji-Ojo expressed concerns about certain aspects of migration and visa policies that appear lopsided and may lead to Nigeria being perceived as a destination for irregular migration. He emphasized that the review would take into account the principle of reciprocity, aligning with international norms and standards.
Tunji-Ojo praised the proactive efforts of NIDCOM, highlighting the potential for the Commission to contribute significantly to the welfare of Nigerians in the Diaspora and enhance the country’s positive image abroad. He also raised concerns about the challenges associated with passport processing, data capture, and collection. The Minister assured that the ministry would work towards improving the efficiency of these processes.
Abike Dabiri-Erewa, in turn, commended the Minister of Interior for the improvements in passport issuance to Nigerians, both at home and abroad. She emphasized the need for more effective passport data capture and collection procedures for Nigerians residing abroad.
Dabiri-Erewa outlined various activities and initiatives undertaken by NIDCOM, including data mapping of Nigerians in the Diaspora, efforts to increase diaspora remittances, the establishment of diaspora focal persons, and the organization of events such as Diaspora Day on July 25, the Badagry Door of Return, Diaspora Quarterly lecture series, the National Diaspora Investment Summit, Diaspora Investment Trust Fund, and other interventionist programs aimed at enhancing the welfare of Nigerians.
The NIDCOM Chairman stressed the urgency of collaboration and the establishment of a structural platform to address complex diaspora issues, necessitating coordinated efforts from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to achieve comprehensive solutions.
