The Federal Government has announced plans to take strict action against irregular migrants in the country from August 1.

To allow for compliance, a three-month grace period would be given from May 1 to August 1, during which the new Expatriate Administration System will be implemented before enforcement begins.

Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, disclosed this yesterday in Abuja during a meeting with the Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association.

He explained that there would be an immigration amnesty programme for three months to help migrants regularise their status.

Tunji-Ojo also warned companies obstructing the Nigeria Immigration Service from performing its duties, stating that the government will no longer tolerate such action.

He said: “We agreed that the days when some companies irresponsibly block or avoid immigration laws are over. The private sector understands that, by law, the Immigration Service has a job to do, and they must be allowed to do it.

“Any company that tries to prevent them from carrying out their duties will face strict action. We will not tolerate it.”

He equally addressed fees for immigration services, noting that the current charges were not sustainable.

The minister added: “We reviewed the fees because we know they need adjustment for certain citizenship and business activities. After negotiations, we have reached a middle ground, and the finalised breakdown will be officially released and signed by both the ministry and NECA.”