Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with the Republic of India, anchored on mutual respect, reciprocity, and shared prosperity.
The Honourable Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made this known while receiving the Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Abhishek Singh, during a courtesy visit in Abuja. The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation in migration management, correctional and fire services, and broader institutional capacity-building initiatives. This was contained in a statement signed by Mary Ali (Mrs), Head, Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Interior.
The Minister commended the positive contributions of the Indian community to Nigeria’s economic development and reaffirmed Nigeria’s tradition of hospitality and openness to lawful enterprise. He emphasized, however, that migration data and identity management remain matters of national sovereignty, noting that the Migration Information and Data Analysis System (MIDAS) continues to strengthen national migration governance.
On expatriate employment, the Minister clarified that the Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC/SEPAC) remains a legal requirement under the Nigeria Immigration Service Act. He noted that individuals under 18, students, and naturalized citizens are exempt, while compliance rests with employing companies. He stressed that expatriate engagement must generate measurable value and support job creation for Nigerians, adding that Nigeria cannot continue to bear the financial burden of repatriating foreign nationals involved in legal infractions.
In his remarks, the High Commissioner expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s transparency, particularly regarding consular access and fair treatment of Indian nationals. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to advancing people-to-people ties and strengthening the Nigeria–India strategic partnership through sustained dialogue and mutual economic benefit.
The Honourable Minister concluded by reiterating that the current administration remains open to dialogue and constructive engagement. He emphasized that the Federal Government’s doors remain open to discussions aimed at ensuring fairness, reciprocity, and mutual economic benefit in the bilateral relationship.
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