Labour Minister Engages Nigerian High Commissioner on Residence and Work Permit Concerns

The Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Hon. Umaru Napoleon Koroma, has engaged the Nigerian High Commissioner to Sierra Leone on concerns relating to residence and work permit fees affecting Nigerian nationals living and working in the country.

During the meeting, the Nigerian High Commissioner Ayo Luther-Ogbomode expressed appreciation for the longstanding cordial relations between Sierra Leone and Nigeria, describing Sierra Leone as a welcoming home for Nigerians. She commended the hospitality and kindness extended to Nigerian nationals but highlighted the need to review certain administrative and financial requirements relating to residence and work permits.

She further noted that the cost of obtaining and renewing these permits places a considerable financial responsibility on Nigerian business owners, employees and students, many of whom have lived and contributed to Sierra Leone’s economy for several years.

The High Commissioner therefore appealed to the Ministry to consider reviewing the existing fees in the spirit of bilateral cooperation, mutual respect and the shared commitments of both countries under the ECOWAS framework. She also emphasised the importance of ensuring that Nigerian nationals continue to enjoy a conducive environment in which to live, work and conduct business.

In his response, Minister Koroma welcomed the concerns raised and reaffirmed the importance of maintaining the longstanding relationship between Sierra Leone and Nigeria. He acknowledged the contribution of Nigerian nationals to the country’s commercial and economic activities, noting that both countries share deep historical, social and economic ties.

The Minister explained that the Ministry’s recent compliance initiatives are part of broader efforts to ensure that businesses and foreign nationals operating in Sierra Leone adhere to the country’s labour laws and regulatory requirements. He clarified that these initiatives are not directed at any particular nationality but are intended to promote compliance across all sectors.

On the issue of residence permits, the Minister noted that the principle of reciprocity remains an important consideration in engagements with relevant authorities. He disclosed that discussions would be held with the appropriate immigration authorities to examine the concerns raised, particularly in relation to permit fees and the implementation of ECOWAS provisions.

Minister Koroma welcomed the High Commissioner’s intervention, describing the engagement as an opportunity to strengthen cooperation and address issues of mutual concern through dialogue and constructive collaboration.

The meeting underscored the commitment of both parties to sustaining the strong bilateral relationship between Sierra Leone and Nigeria while promoting a fair and conducive environment for nationals of both countries.