The minister of interior, Mr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has said that the visa-on-arrival (VOA) process had not been phased out.
He disclosed this after a meeting with the director general of the presidential enabling business environment council (PEBEC), Ms Zahrah Audu, yesterday in Abuja.
AT the session, Tunji-Ojo assured Audu that the VOA regime was still in operation but had only been upgraded improve efficiency and effectiveness.
He further clarified that travellers will still be able to apply online for short-stay visas, with approvals being granted within 24 to 48 hours.
In her remarks, Audu said the upgrade “is in line with PEBEC’s efforts to simplify procedures and reduce bureaucratic constraints to doing business in Nigeria.
Once approved, she said, the visa will be sent to the applicant’s email, eliminating the need for a physical sticker upon arrival.
This upgrade builds upon the existing online approval system, streamlining the process and enabling travellers to receive their approvals ahead of time.
“This enhanced system aims to cut out inefficiencies, allowing Nigeria to better automate and control the inflow of travellers.
“With this upgrade, the country takes another step towards improving its business environment and attracting foreign investment,” she said.
