Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has announced plans to integrate the country’s Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Cards (CERPAC) database with INTERPOL and other international criminal databases.
Speaking at a forum with Nigerian business owners regarding the full automation of the CERPAC process, the minister stated that this integration is crucial to prevent Nigeria from becoming a haven for international criminals.
“If you know you have a criminal issue, don’t apply for CERPAC. We will get you because we are integrating the SEPAC solution to Interpol 247 and all other criminal systems so that Nigeria will not be a haven for somebody that they are looking for all over the world,” Tunji-Ojo warned.
Addressing concerns about potential fee increases, the minister clarified that there are no such plans, and the changes are solely aimed at fully automating the CERPAC application process.
According to Tunji-Ojo, all CERPAC applications and payments will be completed online, with the immigration service handling the review process digitally.
The new online system will go live on May 1, accessible through both the Immigration and Ministry websites, with reciprocal links for easy navigation.
The minister also emphasised that employers will be held accountable for any legal violations committed by their expatriate employees, aligning with international practices.
Key Information about CERPAC:
The Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Cards (CERPAC) serves as a legal residency and identification document for foreigners living or working in Nigeria.
It allows them to reside and work legally for an extended period, typically one year or more, subject to renewal.
The issuance and management of CERPAC are governed by the Immigration Act 2015 and the Immigration Regulation 2017, which empower the Nigeria Immigration Service.
