The Nigerian Federal Government, represented by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has declared its enhanced ability to track and apprehend foreigners who are in the country illegally due to visa overstays. This announcement was made during the 2026 Sectoral Performance Review Retreat in Abuja, highlighting a significant step in border control and immigration management. The government's new initiatives are underpinned by the establishment of an Integrated Operations Centre and a Network Operations Centre by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), which are designed to manage and monitor immigration effectively.

The minister's remarks suggest that the government has developed a comprehensive database that allows for the meticulous tracking of foreigners who have entered Nigeria over the last ten years. This initiative is crucial as it provides the necessary tools to differentiate between those complying with their visa regulations and those who have overstayed their permits. Tunji-Ojo stressed that this newfound capacity not only aims to enforce immigration laws within Nigeria but also reflects a global standard of accountability, particularly as Nigerians abroad face stringent immigration measures.

Going forward, Tunji-Ojo has affirmed that the Federal Government is committed to taking action against visa overstays, which signifies a more assertive approach to immigration control in Nigeria. This development may lead to a tightening of rules for foreigners and could have implications for international relations and the perception of Nigeria's immigration policies. By ensuring that foreign nationals adhere to the terms of their stay, the government seeks to enhance national security and regulate the foreign population more effectively.