The Federal Government says more than 840,000 foreigners are currently staying in Nigeria with expired visas. Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, disclosed this on Tuesday in a televised interview. He said Nigeria’s upgraded immigration system revealed the figures. According to him, officials recorded about 840,290 foreigners across the country who have overstayed. Tunji-Ojo stressed that …
FG Identifies Over 840,000 Visa Overstayers, Defends UK Migration Deal
The Federal Government says more than 840,000 foreigners are currently staying in Nigeria with expired visas.
Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, disclosed this on Tuesday in a televised interview. He said Nigeria’s upgraded immigration system revealed the figures. According to him, officials recorded about 840,290 foreigners across the country who have overstayed.
Tunji-Ojo stressed that irregular migration is not limited to Nigerians abroad. He said Nigeria also faces serious internal migration challenges.
Concerns Over Nigeria–UK Migration Agreement
The revelation comes amid public concerns about a migration deal between Nigeria and the United Kingdom. On March 19, both countries signed three Memoranda of Understanding on migration partnership. Tunji-Ojo defended the agreement. He said both nations built it on mutual respect and shared responsibility.
He explained that the deal promotes safe and legal migration. It also strengthens efforts against trafficking and smuggling.
The minister rejected claims that Nigeria would accept foreign prisoners or asylum seekers.
He said the agreement only allows the return of nationals who no longer have legal rights to stay abroad.
“This is standard international practice,” he noted.
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Tunji-Ojo said the agreement protects Nigerians who return from the UK. He explained that past deportations often stripped people of dignity. Many returned with only personal belongings.
However, he said the new deal ensures better treatment. He pointed to Article 8 of the agreement. It guarantees respect for human rights and dignity.
According to him, authorities will treat all returnees fairly. The agreement also includes gender-sensitive protections.
Tunji-Ojo added that the partnership will help Nigeria manage foreign overstayers more effectively.
He said the government will use improved systems to track and enforce immigration rules.
He maintained that the agreement benefits both countries.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
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