By Omeiza Ajayi
Abuja – The Federal Government has rolled out a new initiative called the Post-Amnesty Voluntary Return and Documentation Programme (PAVRDP). This programme is specifically designed for foreign nationals who missed the opportunity to participate in the recently concluded Expired Visa Amnesty, which ended on September 30, 2025.
In a statement released late Friday in Abuja by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), and authorized by its Public Relations Officer, ACI Akinsola Akinlabi, the PAVRDP is set to commence on October 13, 2025.
ACI Akinlabi highlighted that this programme aims to support foreign nationals who have overstayed their visas or violated immigration laws by providing a legal avenue to regularize their status within Nigeria.
The NIS has instructed all eligible individuals to visit the nearest Immigration Command to register and obtain proper documentation. Each case will be reviewed on its own merits, in accordance with the Immigration Act of 2015 and other applicable laws.
Authorities have issued a stern warning that failure to comply with this directive could result in arrest, detention, deportation, and potentially extended bans on re-entry into Nigeria.
Additionally, the NIS cautioned businesses, organizations, and private individuals against sheltering or assisting undocumented immigrants, emphasizing that such actions are illegal and subject to penalties under Nigerian law.
Reiterating its dedication to effective migration management, the Nigeria Immigration Service stressed that this programme is part of broader efforts to strengthen national security by ensuring foreign residents comply with immigration regulations through proper registration and oversight.