The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has disclosed that over 840,000 foreign nationals are currently residing in Nigeria with expired visas, highlighting what he called a growing migration concern.

Speaking on Channels Television on Tuesday, the minister said the figures were drawn from the country’s newly upgraded immigration monitoring system, which provides more precise data on migration trends.

He explained that the situation reflects a global pattern, with Nigeria, like many other nations, facing challenges from visa overstays.

“As of this morning, our enhanced system shows approximately 848,290 individuals from various countries have overstayed their visas in Nigeria,” Tunji-Ojo stated.

He emphasized that tackling irregular migration is critical for national security and requires robust monitoring and enforcement mechanisms. He also noted that people without valid residency status are vulnerable to exploitation and could be linked to criminal activities, including human trafficking and smuggling.

The minister further called for increased international cooperation, especially through bilateral agreements that ensure the safe and dignified return of individuals who no longer have legal permission to remain in Nigeria.

Addressing rumors, Tunji-Ojo dismissed suggestions that Nigeria might agree to accept foreign prisoners, insisting that such proposals would not be considered by the current administration.

“There is no possibility of this government agreeing to any deal that involves bringing foreign inmates into Nigeria,” he said.

Clarifying the recent migration agreement between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, the minister noted that the arrangement is strictly reciprocal, applying only to Nigerian citizens, and contains no provisions for transferring foreign prisoners into the country.