There is currently chaos and confusion over the hurried introduction of “Brown Card”, a new document for permanent residency for foreigners in Nigeria by the immediate past government. The innovation, which was announced by the former minister of interior, Rauf Aregbesola, was packaged without the input of relevant agencies and stakeholders. Aregbesola made the announcement at the conferral ceremony for 385 foreigners.
However, there has been apprehension and confusion since the introduction as stakeholders are querying the hurried nature of the new policy. These worries revolve around the execution, and the intention of this policy. A source close to the new administration disclosed that the policy is being reviewed.
Currently, there are reports of unscrupulous ISIS characters using the back door routes with ECOWAS passports from countries such as Guinea Bissau thronging through West Africa. Who can key into this Brown Card.
It would be recalled that towards the twilight of the previous administration, many policies and bills were signed which are expected to benefit Nigerians in the long run. However, this is one of those policies that is being revisited by the new administration to ensure that the interest of Nigeria, overrides the interest of a few.
