19th June, 2017
The Minister of Interior, retired Lt.-Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau has tasked the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) on the strict compliance with its operational order in the Ease of Doing Business in Nigeria.
The minister said this at the official presentation of the handbook on the operationalisation of the Presidential Executive Order One (EO 1) in the Nigeria Immigration Service on Monday in Abuja.
He explained that document clearly outlines list of all requirements and conditions for obtaining services from the NIS and the specific fees and timelines in a transparent and efficient manner.
“Mr President clearly stated in the Order that the public service must be accountable and responsible to the public at all times,
“This Administration’s commitment to combat corruption does not end with recovery of looted funds or just monetary matters, but extends to the elimination of sharp and corrupt practices in the delivery of services to the people,
“My Ministry shall ensure that all agencies within our jurisdiction comply with the directive,’’ he said.
He said that the document has outlined requirements and process in respect of Passport Services, Visa Services, Residence Permits and Port of Entry documentation which must be adhered to by Officers and Men of the NIS.
He expressed optimism that the measure will go a long way in ensuring transparency, efficiency and professionalism in the ease of doing business in Nigeria and general service delivery to the public.
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The minister also inaugurated the NIS Dress Code and a Contact Centre to promptly address the complaints of investors and general public in this regard.
Earlier, the Comptroller-General of the NIS, Muhammad Babandede said that Service had put in place the necessary machinery to ensure compliance with the operational order.
He charged officers and men of the Service to eschew corruption and remain professional in the discharge of their duties or face the full wrath of the law.
“Let me say that failure of the appropriate officer to act on any application within stipulated timeline shall amount to misconduct and subject to disciplinary proceedings,’’ he said.
He however stressed that the success of the implementation of the Executive Orders was hinged on adequate supply of working materials such as passport booklets and visa vignettes.