The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has directed all foreign nationals residing in Niger State to regularise their immigration status before the current amnesty period ends later this month.
The directive was issued by the Niger State Comptroller of Immigration, Maduka Hope, following a meeting with leaders of the Nigerien community in the state. He said the move aligns with a nationwide initiative by the Comptroller-General of Immigration to enhance border security and strengthen migration management.
Hope warned that foreign nationals without valid travel documents or identification risk being repatriated once the amnesty window closes. He clarified that the exercise covers all ECOWAS citizens, although it will be carried out in phases, starting with the largely populated Nigerien community.
He emphasized that the ongoing documentation process is voluntary and non-coercive, with no arrests having been made at this stage. However, he cautioned that migrants who evade the exercise or fail to comply would face lawful enforcement actions.
According to the comptroller, irregular migrants may be required to return to their home countries to obtain proper documentation before re-entering Nigeria legally. He added that immigration authorities are working with community leaders to promote compliance and will provide guidance to those willing to regularise their stay.
Hope also disclosed plans to strengthen border security through collaboration with the military, police, and other security agencies, urging all foreign nationals to complete their documentation before the amnesty expires.
