Nigeria Moves To Tighten Visa Processes With New Identity Verification Policy
Nigeria is set to strengthen its visa regime by prioritising identity verification in consular services, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, has announced.
Speaking in Abuja on Thursday during a pitch presentation by ASFAAR, a visa and tour company partnering with the government, Tuggar said the move aims to protect the integrity of Nigerian citizens and curb identity fraud in visa applications.
The policy, backed by full inter-agency collaboration, will use Nigeria’s National Identification Number (NIN) as the main reference point, allowing destination countries to verify applicants in real time.
This, Tuggar explained, would speed up legitimate applications, reduce visa abuse, and discourage the use of unauthorised third-party agents who pose security risks.
“This is not merely a domestic regulation, but a cooperative tool for mutual benefit,” he said. “It will ensure Nigerians travel abroad responsibly, legally, and with dignity, while enhancing security for all stakeholders.”
ASFAAR’s Chairman/CEO, Dr Jamil Hausawi, noted that the system will support not replace existing consular procedures, providing secure access to verified data, real-time alerts, and biometric confirmation.
The initiative comes as countries like the U.S. and UAE adjust their visa policies towards Nigeria, citing concerns over visa overstays and the need for reliable identity records.
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