Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, has raised concerns about expatriates working in jobs meant for Nigerians without proper work permits.

The minister shared this information on January 15 during a budget defense session with the joint national assembly committees on interior. According to Tunji-Ojo, 90% of expatriates filling roles intended for Nigerians do not have the required legal permits.

Adams Oshiomhole, the chairman of the Senate Committee on Interior, had earlier criticized the ministry for allowing foreigners to occupy jobs that should go to Nigerian citizens. He expressed concern over the lack of enforcement of work permit regulations.

In his response, the minister acknowledged the problem and stressed the need for better “migration management.” He pointed out that some sensitive aspects of this issue could only be discussed behind closed doors.

This revelation highlights the urgent need to improve Nigeria’s migration policies, ensure compliance with work permit requirements, and protect job opportunities for Nigerians.

“No country in the world allows all manner of people to come under all kinds of guises and they are given visas and whatever it is to reside in the country. Visit the commercial centres, you will find expatriates selling tables, chairs, bread – but they are clearly jobs that Nigerians can do.”he said

Expatriates working without proper documentation not only affect local employment but also raise concerns about enforcement of immigration laws. Stronger measures are necessary to ensure expatriates adhere to the regulations while safeguarding Nigerian jobs.

“We try to solve compound problems by solving them in silos… 90 percent of the people that you spoke about do not have permits and that is the essence of the automation process that we are doing. When you go to any country in the world, effective border management is the basis of your home migration management.” he said