The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has shut down a visa application centre in Abuja over allegations of extortion and refusal to cooperate with regulatory authorities.
The centre, operated by TLScontact, is located at Metro Plaza in the Central Business District of the Federal Capital Territory.
The FCCPC took the action after receiving multiple complaints about alleged exploitation of visa applicants. Reports indicated that the centre was involved in unethical practices, including charging applicants for unapproved services and using delays to pressure payments.
Attempts to resolve the matter through dialogue failed as the centre’s management reportedly ignored several invitations from the FCCPC. In response, the Commission sealed the facility and ordered a complete evacuation of staff and applicants.
In a letter sent to the company by the Commission’s Head of Legal Services, Nsitem Chizenum, the centre was instructed to appear before the FCCPC.
The letter read, “The company is to appear, produce and provide all documents before it on or before 2 pm on Friday, June 20, 2025, to testify, make deposition and provide evidence on its failure to receive a letter of the Commission to investigate a complaint and obstruction of investigation or inquiry, pursuant to section 110 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission Act 2018, and to remain until executed.”
The Commission further stated that the company must provide documentation relating to the complaint, or risk additional legal consequences. Under Nigerian law, failure to comply with a regulatory inquiry or obstructing investigations is an offence punishable with fines or closure of business premises.
FCCPC Reaffirms Commitment to Protecting Nigerians from Exploitation
The closure of the visa centre has drawn attention to the growing concerns over how third-party agencies operate visa processing on behalf of foreign governments in Nigeria.
Many of these centres manage applications for countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, and Schengen nations. However, several applicants have reported facing unnecessary charges, delays, and unprofessional conduct from some staff.
The FCCPC reiterated its commitment to protecting Nigerian consumers from unfair practices, whether by local or foreign-owned companies. According to the Commission, agencies providing visa services must abide by Nigerian laws and treat applicants fairly.
Security officers were seen sealing off the premises on Thursday, as confused applicants stood outside the building. No official statement has been released by the affected visa centre at the time of reporting.
This development comes as more Nigerians seek opportunities abroad due to rising inflation, unemployment, and insecurity in the country. Visa application centres have become extremely busy, with many people paying large sums in the hope of better lives overseas.
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