Abuja, June 19, 2025 – The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has sealed off a prominent visa application centre in Abuja following allegations of extortion and exploitative practices against Nigerian applicants seeking travel documents.
The enforcement action, carried out on Tuesday by officials of the commission, was based on mounting complaints from members of the public accusing the centre of demanding unofficial fees, operating unapproved premium service channels, and manipulating appointment schedules to exploit desperate applicants.
According to the FCCPC, preliminary investigations revealed that the visa centre was charging applicants extra fees under the guise of ‘express processing’ and other unverifiable administrative costs that were not sanctioned by the relevant embassies or high commissions.
Addressing journalists shortly after the operation, a senior FCCPC official stated that the commission will not tolerate any form of abuse targeting Nigerian consumers, particularly in critical services such as visa processing. He emphasized that visa applicants, already burdened by high official fees, must not be subjected to illegal financial demands by unscrupulous agents.
“The Commission received credible intelligence supported by consumer testimony indicating that applicants were being exploited through unapproved charges and opaque appointment procedures,” the official said. “We are committed to sanitizing the sector and ensuring Nigerians are treated with dignity and fairness.”
The FCCPC noted that the sealed centre will remain closed pending the conclusion of its investigation and possible prosecution of those found culpable. The Commission also warned other visa service providers to adhere strictly to approved fee structures and operating guidelines.
Affected applicants have been advised to contact the FCCPC directly for guidance and support, as efforts are underway to liaise with foreign missions to mitigate disruptions in the visa application process.
This latest action underscores the Commission’s renewed resolve to crack down on institutions and service providers that undermine consumer rights, particularly in high-demand sectors such as travel, healthcare, and education.
