FG to fine airlines for flying passengers without valid visas

The Federal Government has announced plans to penalize airlines that transport passengers to Nigeria without valid visas.

This was disclosed by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during a sensitization programme on the new e-visa policy held in Lagos on Friday.

Tunji-Ojo revealed that the decision followed consultations with the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo.

According to the minister, it is unacceptable for airlines to bring travelers into Nigeria without proper documentation, emphasizing that such practices would not be tolerated in other countries.

“We have issues with airlines bringing passengers into Nigeria without visas.

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“We’ve engaged the Minister of Aviation and the NCAA DG on this matter. It is not the right thing to do and would not be allowed in any other country,” he said.

“For instance, if I tried to travel to the UK without a visa, British Airways wouldn’t even allow me to board.

“Airlines must see the visa before allowing travel. With the NCAA’s support, we will begin enforcing the law—any airline found guilty will face fines.”

On the new e-visa policy, which took effect this month, Tunji-Ojo also shared visa approval statistics.

As of May 22, 2025, a total of 5,814 visa applications were received: 5,617 were approved, 66 rejected, and 62 queried.

He further explained that all applications are thoroughly vetted, including hotel reservations, to ensure the integrity of the process.

“We will build a foolproof system,” he added.