ABUJA – The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has reaffirmed its commitment to partner with the federal government and relevant stakeholders to implement ongoing migration reforms aimed at promoting economic dignity, regulatory compliance, and sustainable growth.
The director-general of NECA, Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, made the declaration during a Stakeholders’ Sensitisation Workshop in Kano focused on Expatriate Quota Reform, the New Visa Regime, and the Post-Amnesty Programme.
Oyerinde emphasized that NECA remains dedicated to fostering an economy where the rule of law and enterprise development coexist. He stressed that collaboration is key to making the post-amnesty process a model of structured inclusion.
Aligning with AfCFTA for Economic Integration
According to Oyerinde, the migration reforms align closely with the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by facilitating the freer movement of goods, services, and people across the continent.
“Nigeria, as Africa’s largest economy, must lead by example in demonstrating that lawful mobility and economic opportunity can coexist within a secure and predictable policy environment,” Oyerinde stated.
He explained that for the private sector, the post-amnesty programme is both timely and necessary as it ensures employers operate within clear legal frameworks, protects businesses from liability, and strengthens workforce integrity.
Path to Regularization and Economic Benefits
Oyerinde commended the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and the Comptroller-General of Immigration, Kemi Nanna Nandap, for their leadership in driving the reform agenda.
He highlighted that the post-amnesty initiative offers foreign nationals who have fallen out of compliance with immigration regulations a lawful path to regularisation, which reinforces Nigeria’s sovereignty.
“When governed by clear rules and strong institutions, migration becomes a source of national strength,” he added, noting that proper documentation enables migrants to contribute productively to the economy by working lawfully, paying taxes, and participating in the formal sector.
NECA reiterated its readiness to collaborate with the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) through continuous engagement and advocacy to ensure the reforms achieve their intended objectives of stimulating economic growth and promoting dignified migration.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on statements made by the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) at a public stakeholders’ forum. The views on policy benefits and economic impact represent the perspective of the employers’ body. CDA News reports on this development as part of its coverage of national economic and immigration policy.
