The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has said that airlines airlifting passengers into Nigeria without a valid entry visa or landing and exit cards would be penalised.
Tunji-Ojo made the remarks at a stakeholders sensitisation programme on the implementation of the E-Visa and Landing and Exit Cards on Friday in Lagos.
The minister said Nigeria was not a testing ground, insisting that no foreigner should be allowed entry without a visa.
He said although Nigeria was making entry more accessible with the introduction of the e-visa, it would not compromise on national security.
He urged the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) as a regulator to ensure that airlines adhere to the 2025 Nigeria visa policy.
Tunji-Ojo tasked airlines on national security, stating that the e-visa was of national interest to improve border security, tourism and sustainable economic growth.
“I plead with the NCAA to regulate; that is why this meeting is a strategic collaborative effort of the ministry, the Nigeria Immigration Service and the NCAA.
For the airlines, I know you are here to do business, but you also have a responsibility in terms of national interest and security.
“Before anybody comes to Nigeria, please see their visas, not proof of payment or tickets.
“It is not acceptable in the UK, US, Canada and other climes, and it will not be acceptable in Nigeria anymore,” he added.
The minister disclosed that as at May 22, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) had received 5,814 applications, approved 5,671, rejected 66 and queried 62 applications since the introduction of the e-visa on May 1.
According to him, the e-visa process will improve the database of the NIS with information about travellers.