FG Condemns Shooting of Immigration Officer on Chinese Expatriate’s Order, Moves to Tighten Immigration Laws

The Federal Government has condemned the recent shooting of a Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) officer, allegedly on the orders of a Chinese expatriate in Niger State. The officer was carrying out official duties at a Chinese-owned company when the incident occurred.

Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo expressed outrage over the attack, describing it as an assault on Nigeria’s sovereignty. Speaking at a Stakeholders’ Sensitization Workshop on the Implementation of the Nigeria Visa Policy 2025 in Abuja, he warned that Nigeria would not tolerate any form of disrespect from foreign businesses operating within its borders.

Tunji-Ojo emphasized that the government is taking the matter seriously and will engage with the Chinese Embassy to ensure accountability. He stated that no foreign national or company is above Nigerian law and vowed that such incidents would not happen again.

As part of efforts to strengthen immigration oversight, the minister announced plans to automate Nigeria’s immigration lists, categorizing foreigners into white, grey, and black lists. He warned that any individual posing a security threat would be swiftly blacklisted. He also revealed the introduction of an expatriate administration system by May 1, aimed at tracking and regulating foreign workers in Nigeria. A three-month window, from May to August, will allow expatriates to regularize their immigration status before enforcement actions, including prosecution and deportation, commence.

Tunji-Ojo reassured the business community that Nigeria remains open to foreign investments but insisted that businesses must operate within the law and treat Nigerian authorities with respect. He acknowledged China’s role as a key trade partner but stressed that Nigeria would not tolerate violations of its immigration policies.

Comptroller General of Immigration Kemi Nana Nandap also announced a major reform of Nigeria’s visa policies, reducing classifications from 79 to 44 to simplify procedures. She highlighted the introduction of a fully online e-visa system, allowing travelers to complete applications without visiting embassies. The new framework includes 13 specific e-visa classes to accommodate various travel purposes, streamlining access for tourists, business travelers, and dual nationals.