The Federal Government has announced the arrest and handover of several foreign nationals flagged on Interpol’s watchlist.
The individuals were apprehended at various locations across the country and subsequently transferred to Interpol authorities.
These arrests were made possible through the integration of Nigeria’s Advanced Passenger Information System (APIS) with Interpol’s global security database. However, authorities have not disclosed specific details regarding the identities or charges against those apprehended.
The announcement was made during a joint press briefing in Abuja by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), and the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
The ministers noted that the arrests reflect an enhanced collaboration between their ministries and key agencies, including the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
According to the ministers, the move is part of a broader strategy to boost national security while ensuring efficient passenger processing at entry and exit points.
In addition to the arrests, the government also unveiled a new e-visa platform aimed at eliminating travel bottlenecks and modernizing immigration procedures.
“What we are doing here today is further evidence of this administration’s commitment to inter-ministerial cooperation,” Keyamo stated. “The introduction of the e-Visa is a major step forward in our effort to streamline travel and enhance national security.”
Dr. Tunji-Ojo explained that the shift from manual to digital processes would significantly improve border control. He announced that beginning May 1, 2025, travellers will be required to complete landing and exit cards online prior to boarding, which must then be presented to airlines before departure.
He added that the NCAA and NIS will work together to develop the necessary regulatory framework and implementation protocol.
“These cards are completely free and are meant solely for security and data management,” Tunji-Ojo emphasized. “We are also removing unnecessary hurdles from the visa process. Foreign nationals will no longer need to go through unofficial channels to enter Nigeria. Our goal is to open our borders to genuine visitors while maintaining robust security.”
The government also announced a three-month amnesty period, starting May 1, 2025, allowing overstaying foreigners or individuals in breach of immigration laws to regularize their status without penalty.
Speaking on the recent arrests, the Interior Minister revealed that the APIS system has already led to the interception of numerous individuals on Interpol’s red list.
“These individuals, who might have previously entered Nigeria unnoticed, were intercepted at entry points and handed over to Interpol. This progress reflects what can be achieved when agencies work together in the spirit of the Renewed Hope agenda,” he said.
He concluded by reiterating the importance of unified action: “This is what we can accomplish when we collaborate under one national priority — protecting the safety, sovereignty, and integrity of Nigeria.”
