The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched a major investigation into an alleged visa overstay fraud scheme within the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), with several serving officers reportedly questioned over their suspected roles in the operation.
The probe is said to be focused on the collection and management of penalties imposed on foreign nationals who overstay their visas in Nigeria.
Investigators are examining claims that large sums of money generated through the process were diverted through unofficial channels over a number of years.
Sources familiar with the investigation disclosed that at least five immigration officers, including a senior officer at the rank of deputy comptroller, have been interrogated as part of the ongoing inquiry.
The officers are attached to key immigration formations, including the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, and the service headquarters in the Federal Capital Territory.
According to findings, investigators have traced significant financial transactions linked to some of the individuals under scrutiny. One suspect is reportedly being investigated over funds estimated at about N700 million allegedly discovered in bank accounts connected to him.
Another officer is also being questioned over several high-value properties believed to have been acquired through third parties.
The investigation centres on allegations that some immigration officials exploited foreigners who overstayed their visas by collecting money outside official channels. Authorities are now working to determine the scale of the operation and identify those who may have benefited from it.
The matter has attracted attention because it concerns the enforcement of visa regulations introduced under the Nigeria Visa Policy 2025. Under the policy, foreigners who remain in the country beyond the validity of their visas are expected to pay a daily penalty.
Officials familiar with the case said the investigation began after information was reportedly provided by a female immigration officer who raised concerns about activities within the system.
