The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has pledged full support for the federal government’s migration reform agenda, including new expatriate quotas, visa frameworks, and post-amnesty programs aimed at integrating undocumented migrants into the formal economy.

The commitment follows a Stakeholders’ Sensitisation Workshop held in Kano.

NECA Director-General Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde said the reforms align with national development goals and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which promotes freer movement of goods, services, and people across borders. “Law, enterprise, and opportunity must coexist,” Oyerinde stated, adding that the post-amnesty initiative offers legal safeguards while protecting businesses from liability.

He emphasized Nigeria’s leadership role as Africa’s largest economy in promoting lawful mobility and structured workforce inclusion. “NECA stands ready to partner with the Nigeria Immigration Service on engagement, capacity-building, and advocacy to meet these goals,” he said.

The workshop highlighted ongoing efforts to overhaul migration policy amid concerns over enforcement costs and potential labor exploitation. While critics, including labor unions, have raised questions about protections for vulnerable workers, NECA argued that inclusive models could enhance compliance and build trust across sectors.

Oyerinde noted that the reforms provide employers with clearer planning parameters and support long-term sustainability. As AfCFTA implementation progresses, the migration overhaul is expected to facilitate cross-border talent flows and strengthen Nigeria’s regional competitiveness.

Implementation details are still pending, but NECA’s endorsement signals strong private-sector backing for the initiative.