The Nigerian government has expressed strong condemnation over a shocking incident in which a security guard, reportedly acting on the orders of a Chinese businessman, shot an officer of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS). The attack, which occurred at a Chinese-owned company in Abuja, has sparked outrage, with authorities describing it as a direct affront to Nigeria’s sovereignty.
Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made this revelation on Thursday during a stakeholders’ sensitization workshop on the Nigeria Visa Policy 2025. Visibly angered by the incident, the minister assured Nigerians that the government would not let such an attack go unchallenged.
Government’s Response and Diplomatic Implications
Speaking on the matter, Dr. Tunji-Ojo revealed that he would be taking up the issue with the Chinese Embassy.
“This is personal to me. I won’t mention the company’s name here, but the fact is that a security officer, working for a foreign-owned company, was instructed to shoot one of our immigration officers—and he did it. This happened just a few weeks ago. It is completely unacceptable, and we will ensure that appropriate action is taken,” he stated.
Emphasizing the gravity of the situation, the minister declared that such acts would not be tolerated in Nigeria.
“It is an attack on our nation. No country in the world would accept this. Our security personnel risk their lives daily to serve this country, and we cannot allow any foreign entity to undermine them in their own land,” he said.
New Measures to Regulate Foreign Nationals
To curb similar incidents and ensure tighter immigration control, Dr. Tunji-Ojo announced the automation of Nigeria’s White, Grey, and Black lists, which will help track foreign nationals in the country. Additionally, he revealed that a new expatriate administration system will take effect on May 1st to monitor foreign workers.
“There will be a three-month window, from May 1st to August 1st, for all foreign nationals to regularize their immigration status. After this period, we will move into a phase of enforcement, prosecution, and deportation for those who fail to comply,” the minister warned.
Clarification on Diplomatic Relations
Addressing concerns raised by a Chinese delegation regarding blacklisting, the minister reassured that Nigeria was not targeting any specific country.
“This is not about China or any particular nation. Nigeria values its partnerships with foreign investors, including the Chinese, Indians, Europeans, and Americans contributing positively to our economy. However, no one is above the law, and compliance with our immigration regulations is non-negotiable,” he asserted.
Reforms in Nigeria’s Visa Policy
In line with ongoing immigration reforms, the Comptroller General of the NIS, Kemi Nana Nandap, announced that Nigeria’s visa classifications would be streamlined from 79 categories to 44. Additionally, a fully online e-visa system will be introduced to simplify procedures and enhance user experience.
“These changes will remove complexities and improve the efficiency of our visa application process,” she stated.
The Nigerian government’s firm stance on this incident sends a clear message: the security and dignity of its officers and citizens are paramount, and any violation will be met with the full force of the law.
