The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the private sector as a strategic partner in national development, declaring that collaboration with businesses is a shared responsibility vital to Nigeria’s economic growth.
The Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, gave the assurance while receiving the Director-General of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), Mr. Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, and his delegation during a courtesy visit to his office.
Speaking at the meeting, the Minister emphasized the indispensable role of businesses in job creation, revenue generation, and sustaining economic stability.
“You are the creators of jobs. You generate the taxes and capital gains that fund government operations. Our responsibility is to ensure that we serve you effectively so you can continue to power Nigeria’s economy,” he stated.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo stressed that stakeholder engagement remains central to the reform agenda of the Federal Ministry of Interior, noting that policymaking under his leadership is driven by collaboration rather than unilateral decisions.
“There is no monopoly of knowledge. When we sit at the table, we brainstorm, we discuss, and we agree. Once we agree, it becomes our decision — not government’s decision alone,” he said.
The Minister highlighted that consultations with NECA and other stakeholders have strengthened ongoing reforms in immigration administration, border management, and regulatory services. He commended the leadership of the Nigeria Immigration Service for improvements in immigration processes and border security, stressing that safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity remains a core national security priority.
He further disclosed that prior to recent reforms, more than 60 percent of certain expatriate quotas were discovered to be fraudulent due to weak system integration among relevant agencies. However, the newly deployed digital framework now enables companies to independently track expatriate quotas and applications, promoting transparency and accountability.
“Businesses no longer need to visit Abuja or know the Minister to conduct legitimate business. The system is open, transparent, and efficient,” he added.
According to a statement by the Head of Press and Public Relations, Mrs. Mary Ali, the Minister noted that the reforms have enhanced Nigeria’s business environment, boosted investor confidence, and curtailed capital leakages.
He concluded by appreciating NECA for its continued partnership and assured stakeholders that their proposals and concerns would continue to receive priority attention within the Ministry and the Nigeria Immigration Service.
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