Nigeria Set To Roll Out E-Visa and Digital Landing Cards To Strengthen Security

Nigeria Set To Roll Out E-Visa and Digital Landing Cards To Strengthen Security

The Federal Government of Nigeria is set to introduce an electronic visa (e-visa) system and digital landing/exit cards as part of broader efforts to enhance national security and streamline travel processes.

This was announced by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, during a meeting in Abuja with a delegation led by Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

Keyamo explained that the e-visa platform will allow applicants to submit visa applications and upload required documents online, reducing the need for physical interactions. In addition, Nigeria’s current manual landing and exit cards will be digitized, with travellers expected to complete them before arrival in the country.

“This initiative demonstrates this administration’s dedication to inter-ministerial cooperation, especially in areas where mandates overlap,” Keyamo said, affirming the full support of aviation-related agencies such as NCAA, FAAN, and the Nigerian Immigration Service.

Providing further insight, Minister Tunji-Ojo announced that the automation process will officially begin on May 1. He emphasized that while the e-visa application will be free, it is designed to both simplify travel procedures and improve national security.

Tunji-Ojo also stated that the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) will oversee the digital landing and exit cards, which all travellers must fill out online prior to boarding flights to Nigeria.

He revealed that a central visa processing hub has already been established at the Nigerian Immigration headquarters, equipped with trained personnel and integrated global criminal database access for more effective background checks on incoming travellers.

“Our aim is to ease access to Nigeria while maintaining strict security protocols,” he said, reiterating that both the Interior and Aviation ministries play pivotal roles in safeguarding Nigeria’s borders without obstructing legitimate travel.