From Joke Falaju and Tina Abeku, Abuja

In line with its electronic visa policy, the Federal Government will begin the issuance of automated landing and exit cards to foreigners on May 1.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development in Nigeria, Festus Keyamo, who disclosed this during a meeting on the implementation and enforcement of immigration protocols, explained that the purpose of this is for the country’s security and record management solution, adding that the cards were free and would be processed online.
  
He explained that the “first place you approach is the boarding desk of an airline, then you are asked for your exit card and not boarding card.  He said: “It is at that time they punch in your details, which will reveal where the foreigner entered the country, once it shows them that you have overstayed, they will refuse to board you and hand you over to immigration to clear yourself, which will decide when to fine you based on the level of offence you have committed and then blacklist you and cancel your visa.”
  
Also, the Minister of Interior, Tunji Ojo, said the e-visa system was expected to streamline the application process for tourists, business travellers, and other eligible visitors seeking entry into Nigeria for short stays. 
  
According to him, the online platform will allow applicants to complete their visa forms, upload necessary documents such as passports, return tickets, and hotel reservations, and make secure payments.