2019 Polls: FG Waives Visa Fee For Election Observers, Closes Nigeria’s Borders

BY EVELYN DADU, ABUJA – The Federal Government on Thursday said that following the re-scheduling of the 2019 General elections to February 23, and March 9, 2019, it has approved a visa fee waiver for all foreign Elections Observers and Monitors. 

This is just as it announced the closure of all Nigeria Land Borders with effect from 12.00 noon of Friday, February 22, to 12.00 noon of Sunday February 24, 2019.

A statement to this effect by the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Muhammad Babandede on behalf of the minister of Interior, said the closure is to restrict movements across the borders during the election days.

He urged the public is to take note and ensure compliance.

In the statement, the minister of Interior, Lt-General Abdulrahman Dambazau, explained that the decision was based on the consideration of the plight of accredited election observers and monitors who were caught-up by the re-scheduled election.

Dambazau further said that all affected individuals and organisations wishing to extend their stay or travel back to their countries and return for the next election are advised to visit Nigeria Immigration Visa Desk at the INEC Headquarters. 

The minister said the desk Officers will attend to those requiring extension of their visa issued Gratis (No Fee Charge).

According to him; “This provision became necessary to afford those affected the opportunity to travel out or return without violating the Immigration provisions that relates to entry and exit with valid visa and document.” 

Dambazau advised all the affected Election Observers and Monitors to take advantage of the approval and note accordingly.