The Federal Ministry of Interior (FMI) has granted exclusive approval rights to the Honourable Minister and the Permanent Secretary within specified thresholds, for Expatriate Quota (EQ) and Citizenship applications.
Consequently, the rights have been removed from the Director level. This change aims to make the process better, clearer, and fairer and fix any problems in the current system.
The revised approval framework aims to address potential abuse and irregularities within the system. The announcement is detailed in a circular dated February 12, 2025, signed by the Permanent Secretary, Dr Magdalene Ajani.
The circular reads: “As part of the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to enhancing transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency in the administration of Expatriate Quota and Citizenship applications, the Honourable Minister has approved a revised approval framework/guideline to address concerns related to potential abuses and irregularities within the system”
This review aligns with the FMI’s commitment to enhancing transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency in the administration of EQ and Citizenship applications. According to experts at KPMG, the Ministry’s efforts to tackle abuse and irregularities within the system are commendable.
However, there are concerns that the new framework may lengthen processing times for applications submitted by businesses, investors, and expatriates seeking employment and residence in Nigeria. Previously, the Director level played a crucial role in approving renewals or additions of EQ positions within certain thresholds, ensuring efficient request processing.
The removal of these approval rights from the Director level means that all applications will now require higher-level review, which could delay processing. While the change may enhance oversight, it places additional responsibility on the Minister and the Permanent Secretary.
The increased volume of applications requiring their approval could strain resources and extend lead times. Consequently, businesses relying on EQ approvals may face challenges due to potential delays.
Analysts at KPMG further recommend that to mitigate these issues, organisations with expatriates should proactively review their EQ portfolios and submit related requests well in advance.
Additionally, they may consider alternative staffing strategies, such as hiring local talent or temporary expatriate assignments, to manage operational needs during the transition period.
Consulting experts on immigration and expatriate matters can also help navigate this new development and ensure compliance.
Ngozi Ekugo is a Senior Labour Market Analyst and Correspondent, specializing in the research and analysis of workplace dynamics, labour market trends, immigration reports, employment law and legal cases in general. Her editorial work provides valuable insights for business owners, HR professionals, and the global workforce. She has garnered experience in the private sector in Lagos and has also had a brief stint at Goldman Sachs in the United Kingdom. An alumna of Queens College, Lagos, Ngozi studied English at the University of Lagos, holds a Master’s degree in Management from the University of Hertfordshire and is an Associate Member of CIPM and Member of CMI, UK.
English (US) ·