FG REACTS TO ALLEGATIONS ON EXPATRIATE QUOTA IN OIL SECTOR ..... As Interior Affairs Ministry Highlights Newly Established Framework

Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo 
Minister of Interior Affairs 

"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," Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Interior. 

Following recent allegations of an expatriate quotas in the oil sector, the Ministry of Interior, under the leadership of the Honourable Minister, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has stated that the allegations are being taken seriously, and that proactive steps to address the concerns have been taken.

A statement issued and signed by Dr. Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry states that, "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 statement read.

"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 further disclosed that, "It would be recalled that the Minister, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, alongside top management officials of the Ministry as well as the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, recently held a meeting with the Nigerian Employers' Consultative Association (NECA) in Lagos on the 4th of March, 2025 where the discussions centred on creating conducive business environment and protecting the interest of Nigerians and Nigeria." 

Furthermore, the Ministry in the statement said; "Rising from the meeting, a review committee was set up consisting the Ministry of Interior, the Nigeria Immigration Service and the organised 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 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. 

"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.