By Ibironke Ariyo
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) issued 1,836,533 passports and repatriated 828 foreigners between January and December 2024, according to Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday during a media briefing with heads of the six agencies under the ministry, Tunji-Ojo highlighted key achievements within the period, including the clearance of over 200,000 pending passport applications.
He also revealed that the ministry rescued 137 victims of human trafficking and intercepted 42 attempts at migrant smuggling.
On border security, the minister disclosed that the first phase of the e-border solution, covering 40% of Nigeria’s borders, had been completed. He added that newly acquired patrol vehicles and e-gates had been deployed to enhance border control.
Additionally, the minister highlighted advancements in visa processing, such as the establishment of a Visa Approval Centre in Abuja and the integration of Interpol’s database to strengthen security checks on applicants.
Tunji-Ojo further stated that granting Nigerian citizenship now involves a more transparent and technology-driven verification process, ensuring due diligence while eliminating unnecessary bureaucracy.
He assured that the ministry remains committed to reforms aimed at improving efficiency and national security.
“While we are not yet where we want to be, significant progress has been made, and we remain committed to delivering better services to Nigerians,” he said.
Tunji-Ojo reaffirmed that the ministry’s efforts align with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of a secure, innovative, and efficient system, adding that Nigerians deserve a system that truly works for them.
