To bolster national security and streamline immigration processes, the Nigerian government is set to integrate its Expatriate Residence Permit and Cards (CERPAC) database with INTERPOL and other international criminal systems. This significant announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during an engagement forum with Nigerian business owners concerning the complete automation of the CERPAC application process.
Minister Tunji-Ojo emphasized that this integration is a critical step to prevent Nigeria from becoming a sanctuary for criminals sought globally. “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 safe haven for somebody that they are looking for all over the world,” the Minister stated emphatically. His words underscore the government’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance security and uphold the rule of law.
The Minister also addressed concerns regarding potential fee increases for CERPAC, firmly stating that there are no such plans. Instead, the focus is on a complete overhaul of the application process through end-to-end automation. Starting May 1st, all CERPAC applications and payments will be conducted online via the Immigration and Ministry of Interior websites, which will feature reciprocal links for seamless navigation. “So, you don’t need to go to the bank because we don’t want to give you an excuse for non-compliance,” Tunji-Ojo explained, highlighting the convenience and efficiency the new system aims to provide.
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Furthermore, the government intends to hold employers accountable for any infractions committed by their expatriate employees, aligning Nigeria with international best practices. “It’s the way it’s done all over the world. It is the employers that we will hold responsible. My business is with you, business owners,” the Minister clarified. This measure aims to ensure greater responsibility and due diligence on the part of businesses employing foreign nationals.
CERPAC and the Legal Framework
The Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Cards (CERPAC) serves as the official identification and proof of legal residency for foreigners living and working in Nigeria for an extended period, typically a year or more, subject to renewal. The legal framework governing immigration matters, including residency, employment, and the revocation of residence permits, is enshrined in Sections 37, 38, and 39 of the Immigration Act 2015. Additionally, Sections 11, 12, 13, and 14 of the Immigration Regulation 2017 authorize the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to issue these crucial resident cards to foreign nationals seeking employment or residency within the country.
The Nigeria Immigration Service emphasizes that CERPAC is essential for enabling foreigners to live and work legally in Nigeria, contributing to the nation’s socio-economic landscape while adhering to its laws and regulations. The integration of the CERPAC database with global criminal systems represents a significant step forward in safeguarding Nigeria’s borders and ensuring a secure environment for both its citizens and law-abiding foreign residents. This move signals a strong commitment to utilizing technology and international collaboration to address transnational crime and enhance national security.
