Interior Ministry tackles expatriate quota allegations, commits to transparent framework
By Ukpono Ukpong
Interior Ministry has responded to recent allegations regarding the administration of expatriate quotas in the oil sector, reaffirming its commitment to transparency and accountability.
The Ministry, in a statement signed by its Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, acknowledged the concerns raised on a national television platform and affirmed that proactive steps have been taken to address them.
According to the statement, a key measure implemented to strengthen the expatriate quota system was the recent review of the approving authority for Expatriate Quota (EQ) and Citizenship applications.
The Ministry, in a circular dated 12 February 2025, had announced that all approvals in this regard would now be handled directly by the Minister and the Permanent Secretary, rather than Directors.
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This shift, the statement emphasized, was necessary to improve transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency in handling expatriate quotas and citizenship applications.
“The Ministry of Interior is aware of recent allegations on a national TV regarding the administration of expatriate quotas in the oil sector.
“The Ministry wishes to inform the public that these allegations are being taken seriously, and that proactive steps to address the concerns have been taken.
“It is noteworthy that the Ministry had earlier announced a review of the approving authority for Expatriate Quota (EQ) and Citizenship applications, in a circular dated 12 February 2025.
“Consequently, in the new framework, all approvals are now domiciled with the Minister and the Permanent Secretary, a swift and necessary shift from its initial administration by Directors.
“The review is in line with the Ministry’s commitment to enhance transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency in the administration of EQ and Citizenship applications as it also seeks to address concerns related to potential abuse and irregularities within the system.” the statement added.
The Ministry further noted that Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, had recently met with top Ministry officials, the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, and representatives of the Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) in Lagos on March 4, 2025.
The meeting focused on fostering a conducive business environment while safeguarding national interests.
During the meeting, stakeholders agreed on the need to review the expatriate quota policy to ensure its effective administration.
As a result, a review committee was established, comprising representatives from the Ministry of Interior, the Nigeria Immigration Service, and the organized private sector under NECA.
“This committee, according to the Minister, is tasked with examining the current expatriate quota policy as well as making recommendations for improvement where necessary,” the statement highlighted.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring fairness and due process in handling expatriate quota applications.
“The Minister, again, wishes to assure the public that the Ministry remains committed to ensuring that the administration of expatriate quotas is fair, transparent, and in the best interests of Nigerians,” the statement said.
Furthermore, the Minister reiterated the Ministry’s dedication to collaborating with stakeholders to refine policies and procedures that support national growth and development.
“Also, the Minister reiterated the commitment of the Ministry in working with stakeholders to address concerns and make improvements to policies and procedures towards the overall growth and development of Nigeria,” the statement concluded.
With these measures in place, the Ministry of Interior aims to enhance public confidence in the expatriate quota system while ensuring it serves both Nigeria’s economic interests and the welfare of its citizens.
