The federal government on Monday said it has noted public concerns on Expatriate Quota policy in the oil sector and therefore restricted approvals to only the Minister and the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Interior.

The government added that citizenship applications and approvals would be done through same approving authorities and not through Directors in the Ministry anymore.

The government noted that the review was necessary to counter allegations of unhealthy practices and ensure transparency, accountability and efficient service delivery in the sector.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajani who issued a statement in Abuja said a circular dated 12 February 2025 had been issued on the matter of the review of the approving authorities.

Ajani said: ?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 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.

?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.

?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 Nation)

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