“90% of foreigners doing Nigerian jobs lack proper work permits” – Tunji-Ojo

Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, has revealed that 90 per cent of expatriates occupying roles meant for Nigerians lack valid work permits.

The minister made this statement on Wednesday while appearing before the joint national assembly committees on the interior to defend the ministry’s budget.

During the session, Adams Oshiomhole, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Interior, expressed concern over the unchecked influx of expatriates taking on jobs Nigerians can easily handle.

“No country in the world allows all manner of people to come under all kinds of guises, and they are given visas to reside in the country,” Oshiomhole said.

“Visit the commercial centres, and you will find expatriates selling tables, chairs, bread—clearly jobs that Nigerians can do.”

Responding to these concerns, Tunji-Ojo acknowledged the issue, emphasizing the need for better migration management. He explained that most expatriates engaged in these activities lack proper documentation.

“We try to solve compound problems by addressing them in silos… 90 percent of the people you spoke about do not have permits, and that is the essence of the automation process we are implementing,” he said.

The minister highlighted that effective border control is crucial for managing migration, noting that it forms the foundation of a robust migration strategy in any country.

He also hinted at undisclosed challenges in the system, stating, “There are issues I cannot discuss in public but can share in a closed session.”

The federal government’s ongoing automation of processes is expected to address these lapses, ensuring that expatriates comply with Nigeria’s regulations and safeguarding jobs for citizens.