Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has said the Visa- on Arrival (VOA) policy has not been scrapped.

The minister stated this after he met with the Director General of the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), Zahrah Mustapha Audu, yesterday in Abuja.

The meeting aimed to address concerns and clarify the government’s stance on the VOA policy.

During the meeting, the Minister of Interior assured the DG that the Visa on Arrival process was not being scrapped but rather upgraded to improve efficiency and effectiveness.

The minister further clarified that travellers would still be able to apply online for short-stay visas, with approvals to be granted within 24 to 48 hours.

Zahrah noted that the development was in line with PEBEC’s efforts to simplify procedures and reduce bureaucratic constraints to doing business in Nigeria.

Once approved, she said the visa would be sent to the applicants’ email, eliminating the need for a physical presence.

“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.