Federal Government Generates ₦6.03bn from Marriage Contracts, Expatriate Quotas
As Interior Minister Urges NYSC to Deploy Medical Doctors to Prisons, Emergency Services
In 2024, the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Interior, generated ₦6.03 billion, with significant contributions of ₦2.4 billion from marriage contracts and ₦3.2 billion from expatriate quota applications.
Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, made this announcement during a media briefing on the Ministry’s 2024 achievements in Abuja. Other notable revenue sources included ₦392.79 million from citizenship applications and ₦12.35 million from the registration of places of worship.
The marriage registry was highlighted as a major income generator, with the Ministry surpassing its revenue target, collecting over ₦892 million from marriage contracts as of October 31, 2023. Dr. Tunji-Ojo also noted that the Ministry’s automation of processes had resulted in a 150% increase in internally generated revenue (IGR) and the elimination of revenue leakages.
He further praised reforms such as the enforcement of Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and fixed timelines for business permits and expatriate quota applications, which contributed to a more efficient and transparent system. The issuance of expatriate quotas was also a key revenue source, with the Ministry earning more than ₦1 billion from permits—well above its target of ₦600 million.
“These reforms have simplified administrative procedures, improved public confidence, and attracted more investors to Nigeria, supporting the nation’s economic growth,” the Minister said.
Additionally, Dr. Tunji-Ojo called for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to deploy medical doctors to Nigerian prisons and emergency services. This initiative, he explained, would address the pressing need for healthcare in custodial centers and provide vital medical support during emergencies across the country.
The Minister also shared that Nigeria had recorded zero jailbreaks in 2024 and discussed plans to strengthen the nation’s borders to control irregular migration, emphasizing that improving border security was vital to safeguarding the country’s national security.
Looking to the future, Dr. Tunji-Ojo reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to enhancing public service delivery, boosting security, and improving citizens’ welfare through ongoing reforms. He mentioned the upcoming launch of the Enterprise Content Management System (ECMS) by the first quarter of 2025, which will further streamline internal processes and improve efficiency.
The Ministry also made significant strides in supporting national security, including fast-tracking the implementation of the Critical Infrastructure Protection Plan (CIPP), conducting vulnerability assessments of critical national infrastructure, and enforcing regulations on private security companies.
On international relations, the Minister highlighted a successful study visit to the UK, which led to the development of a strategic partnership. The Ministry also worked on reviewing and strengthening the Nigeria-UK Readmission and Reintegration Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance bilateral relations and internal security frameworks.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo concluded, “The achievements of the Ministry in 2024 have been driven by strong leadership, innovative reforms, and a deep commitment to public service. As we move into 2025, we are focused on continuing to drive national development through strategic reforms, stakeholder engagement, and innovation in public service delivery.”
He added, “The work of the Ministry in 2024 has laid a solid foundation for continued success, with a clear focus on improving governance, securing the nation, and enhancing the quality of life for all citizens.”
