The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Huawei hosts financial service industry gala in Lagos

    Huawei hosts financial service industry gala in Lagos

    Leading global provider of information and communications technology (ICT), infrastructure, and smart devices, Huawei has hosted a Financial Service Industry Gala in Lagos, bringing together key stakeholders from Nigeria’s banking, regulatory, technology, and economic policy communities to discuss the role of digital infrastructure in the financial services sector.

    The event, held in Lagos, featured senior Huawei executives who outlined the company’s strategy for supporting financial institutions through digital transformation.

    In his opening address, the Chief Executive Officer of Huawei Nigeria, Chris Lu, said the company is focused on redefining how technology supports modern financial services, noting that digital systems are now central to institutional competitiveness and operational efficiency.

    The Chief Executive Officer of Huawei Global Digital Finance, Jason Cao, described Nigeria as a strategic and fast-growing market for digital technology. He said Huawei’s sustained investment in the country is aimed at supporting long-term growth by providing solutions that help financial institutions respond to evolving customer expectations and regulatory demands.

    A major highlight of the gala was the launch of Huawei’s local cloud infrastructure in Nigeria by Roc Bai, Managing Director of Huawei Cloud Nigeria. He unveiled the Huawei Local Cloud and Huawei Cloud Stack 8.6, explaining that the platforms provide secure infrastructure, data localisation, and advanced cloud capabilities tailored to the needs of Nigerian financial institutions and enterprises.

    Huawei’s Director of Financial Services Industry, Glarie Gao, expressed appreciation to customers and partners for their continued support, expressing optimism about achieving greater milestones in the next phase of the company’s growth.

    Beyond technology, discussions at the gala also examined Nigeria’s broader macroeconomic environment. Olusegun Zaccheaus, Partner and Economist at PwC, presented an overview of the country’s economic outlook, stressing that technology has moved beyond being a business enabler to becoming a core component of business models, driving productivity, innovation, and growth.

    A presentation by a representative of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria outlined the stages of economic reform and assessed Nigeria’s current position. The speaker explained that following policy changes such as fuel subsidy removal and exchange rate liberalization, Nigeria has moved into what was described as the inflection and stabilization phases of reform. While these reforms initially led to rising inflation and other macroeconomic pressures, recent indicators suggest gradual improvement.

    The presentation noted that inflation had declined to about 16 percent by October, while exchange rate stability had improved, offering greater predictability for investors and businesses. Improved government revenue performance was also highlighted, alongside expectations of further fiscal gains in 2026.

    Nonetheless, the speaker cautioned that inflation remains elevated and that high interest rates continue to constrain business borrowing.

    Looking ahead, the analysis identified debt sustainability, election-year fiscal pressures, geopolitical developments, domestic security, and capital market growth as key factors likely to shape Nigeria’s economic performance in 2026. Economic growth of between 4 and 4.2 percent was projected, driven by sustained reforms and increased capital market activity, particularly if major enterprises are listed.

    Several sessions at the gala also addressed artificial intelligence and its expanding role in financial services and daily life, with speakers highlighting its potential to improve efficiency, data analysis, and customer service.

    The event concluded with the presentation of Best Trainee Awards to outstanding participants from financial institutions. The award recipients were UBA, Access Bank, Fidelity Bank, GTBank, and NIBSS.

  • Customs seizes contraband worth N1.5bn in Ogun

    Customs seizes contraband worth N1.5bn in Ogun

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun 1 Area Command, Idiroko, has seized contraband goods with the total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N1,586,008,982 in various locations in the state.

    Mr Oladapo Afeni, the Area Comptroller, made this known at a news conference on Wednesday in Idiroko.

    Afeni explained that on Dec.12, the command intercepted an Iveco truck with registration number RMY 354 XA, laden with 4,998 cartons of Dogs brand Spaghetti of 10kg each.

    He added that other seizure was 419 cartons of Oba brand Spaghetti of 10kg each, illegally imported from Turkey.

    The area comptroller added that on Dec. 13, the command also intercepted a DAK truck with registration number JHN 590 XA, carrying 2,200 kegs of vegetables oil, 25 litres each of Indonesian origin.

    “These foods items are designated as contraband goods and are absolutely prohibited for importation in Nigeria,’’ he said.

    According to him, the combined Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the food items stands at N291, 260, 000 while the trucks used as means of conveyance are worth N222, 000, 000.

    Afeni highlighted others items seized to include 11 wraps, weighing 12kg of Crystal Meth (Ice), 16 pieces, weighing 16kg, 128 pieces of Cannabis sativa don’t size and 2,752 wraps of coconut size.

    Others are 2 units of used vehicles, 4,738 bags of foreign parboiled rice of 50kg each, 401 pieces of booklet size, totalling 3,373 and weighing 1,502 kg, 6,750 litera of premium motor spirit.

    Also 8 units of means of conveyance and 309 bundles of used pneumatic tires.

    He said that the total DPV of these seizures was ₦1,586,008,982.

    Afeni said that the seizures were intercepted in different locations within the state, including Lusada/Ado-Odo-axis, Abule Kazeem/Igbo-Ora road, Abeokuta axis, Imeko, Idiroko/Owode axis, and Ipokia axis.

    The comptroller said that the command was able to make the remarkable seizures through technology, intelligence, and inter-agency collaboration.

    He said that the command also generated 27,291,861,00 in revenue within 16 days in December.

    Afeni commended the relentless efforts of officers and men of the command for the remarkable achievement in spite daunting challenges.

    The comptroller also applauded the Comptroller-General of NCS, Bashir Adeniyi, for his dynamic leadership, unflinching support, and consistent encouragement.

    He lauded the collaborative efforts of all sisters agencies, traditional institutions, local informants, community leaders, and the youth whose supports had continued to enhance the command’s operations.

    Afeni reiterated the command’s unwavering commitment to sustain this momentum.

    (NAN) 

  • Ooni’s chieftaincy will strengthen Ghana-Nigeria relations – Mahama

    Ooni’s chieftaincy will strengthen Ghana-Nigeria relations – Mahama

    President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, has expressed that his installation as Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source by His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Adeyeye Babatunde Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ife, symbolises a new chapter in the long-standing bond between Ghana and Nigeria.

    Mahama said this during the heartfelt address he delivered at the Ooni’s Palace, Ile-Ife, Osun State, on December 15, 2025.

    The installation ceremony drew numerous dignitaries and guests, all gathered to witness this significant cultural event.

    In an emotionally charged speech, President Mahama emphasized that the chieftaincy title he received not only honors him personally but also serves as a vital link to further reinforce the fraternal ties between the two neighboring nations. He recounted a pivotal moment from his political journey, highlighting the crucial role the Ooni played in his re-election campaign. Mahama shared a memorable experience from when he was in opposition, revealing that the Ooni had insisted on a visit to his palace, where he experienced a warm welcome and engaged in meaningful discussions.

    Reflecting on that crucial visit, he stated, “Kabiyesi took me to the palace’s most sacred areas and encouraged me to express my deepest desires. After that, he assured me, ‘Go, and you will reclaim your seat.’ In 2024, to my delight, I was re-elected as President.”

    Further expressing his sentiments, Mahama remarked on the longstanding kinship between the peoples of Ghana and Nigeria, asserting, “When Nigeria thrives, Ghana thrives. Our connection is profound; we are like twins born of the same mother, sharing similar aspirations, whether in our passion for football or our culinary pride in jollof rice.”

    He also reminisced about his childhood years spent in Nigeria, following his father’s exile. In a touching dedication, he honored his late stepmother, who hailed from Offa in Kwara State, a place he called home for several years post-university.

    “I humbly accept this chieftaincy title on behalf of the wonderful people of Ghana, as it sends a powerful message about our shared relationship.” He continued, “In memory of my stepmother, Hajia Nusirat Balogun, I embrace this honor. When my father was exiled, it was decided that I should accompany him for companionship. Thus, I lived for years in Nigeria, in places like Lagos, Offa, and Kano alongside my late stepmother’s brother, Sharaf Balogun.”

    During the ceremony, Ooni Adeyeye took the opportunity to express his appreciation for President Mahama. 

    He stated, “On behalf of the House of Oduduwa, I extend our deepest gratitude to His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama for graciously accepting the immense responsibility of becoming a beacon of hope, a pillar of honor, and a symbol of unity for Africa as the Aare Atayeto Oodua. This distinguished recognition underscores your remarkable leadership, unwavering commitment to African unity, and lifelong dedication to humanity. The Oduduwa dynasty takes great pride in welcoming you into this esteemed rank, which stands as a testament to wisdom, courage, and stewardship for our continent.”

    This ceremony not only celebrates the rich cultural heritage but also sets the stage for enhanced cooperation and collaboration between Ghana and Nigeria, further solidifying the bond between these two nations.

  • Obanikoro records major reforms one year as Sanwo-Olu’s aide

    Obanikoro records major reforms one year as Sanwo-Olu’s aide

    As Ibrahim Babajide Obanikoro marks one year as Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Parastatals Monitoring, his tenure has been characterised by significant transformation in oversight practices, strengthened accountability frameworks, and enhanced operational efficiency across Lagos State’s parastatals, agencies, and government-owned companies.

    Since assuming office in December 2024, Obanikoro has repositioned the Parastatals Monitoring Office (PMO) as a strategic driver of institutional reform. His leadership has ensured that state-owned institutions operate in alignment with the T.H.E.M.E.S + Agenda, with a clear focus on service delivery, financial compliance, transparency, and value for money.

    A major achievement of his first year was a comprehensive inspection covering July 2024 to June 2025. The exercise assessed financial management, procurement processes, internal controls, and project implementation across parastatals. Far from being punitive, the review was aimed at identifying operational gaps, promoting adherence to due process, and supporting agencies in adopting best practices.

    To complement these inspections, the PMO organised management-level engagements, including a three-day retreat titled “Driving Oversight, Delivering Results.” The programme provided agency leaders with enhanced understanding of auditing standards, compliance requirements, and performance management, equipping them to deliver better results to the public.

    Obanikoro also led hands-on working tours and on-the-spot assessments of thirty-five parastatals, agencies, and government-owned companies. These visits went beyond ceremonial routines, allowing for direct evaluation of operational challenges, identification of improvement opportunities, and reinforcement of accountability. Key institutions visited included the Lagos State Sports Commission, Lagos State Wastewater Management Office, Lagos State Television and Video Exhibition Board, the Christian and Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards, and Lekki Worldwide Investment Limited.

    Inter-agency collaboration was strengthened under his leadership. Platforms such as the Parastatals Revenue Generating Meeting, Parastatals Interface, and Stakeholders’ Synergy Meeting were enhanced, resulting in better coordination, improved revenue performance, and solution-oriented engagements among leadership teams.

    Workforce welfare also featured prominently. The PMO conducted the maiden Evaluation and Review of Contributory Pension Remittance for parastatals and agencies with directly recruited staff, safeguarding employees’ benefits and reinforcing confidence in public sector pension administration.

    In January 2025, the office hosted its first leadership retreat for CEOs of parastatals and agencies under the theme “Leadership and Good Governance: Strategies for Enhancing Performance, Service Delivery and Revenue Generation.” The retreat emphasised strong leadership, ethics, and effective governance, supporting the fourth pillar of the T.H.E.M.E.S + Agenda.

    Additionally, a project monitoring exercise covering twenty-five parastatals was conducted to ensure judicious use of public funds, strengthen value-for-money principles, and improve outcomes for residents.

    One year into his tenure, Ibrahim Babajide Obanikoro has significantly transformed oversight, accountability, and institutional performance across Lagos State’s parastatals. His leadership reflects the administration’s commitment to building efficient, transparent, and results-oriented public institutions capable of delivering tangible benefits to the people.

  • Fubara clarifies N600bn in Rivers account after emergency

    Fubara clarifies N600bn in Rivers account after emergency

    Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has explained that his administration left N300bn in the state’s account before the emergency rule declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Fubara, who spoke on Wednesday during the inauguration of the 14.2km Obodhi-Ozochi Road initiated by his predecessor but redesigned by his administration in Ahoada East and Ahoada West, said after the emergency and following his resumption, he met N600bn in the state’s account.

    Fubara gave the explanation after the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, made repeated claims that the immediate past Sole Administrator left N600bn in the state’s account.

    The governor said he had kept diligent records of all the money spent by his administration, maintaining that the evidence of how the money was being utilized would be visible soon.

    While insisting that his administration would not be associated with wrongdoing, the governor vowed that his sincerity was intact and that he would not be associated with fraudulent acts.

    The governor said his administration was currently executing serious projects across the state, observing that some persons might think they were not aware of cash disbursement because he did not engage in ceremonial flag-off of projects.

    Fubara said, “Today, I want to tell the world that when we left during the emergency rule, our records are there. We left over N300bn, and when we came back, we met about N600bn. Every penny that we are spending the records are there, and evidence of it will be shown between now and the next six months.

    “So, there is no issue with what we are doing with our money, or what we are doing with the money we met. At least nobody can take away my sincerity. I am not associated with anything that has to do with fraudulent acts.

    “If there is one thing I can say and do, and I am even proud of, it is that nobody can associate me with anything that has to do with any bad thing.

    So, your money and the record of how it is being spent are intact. We have strong projects that we are doing. Maybe the reason some people believe that there is something that is happening and they are not aware of it is that we don’t believe in flagging off projects except otherwise necessary.

    “We believe in commissioning them. We don’t want to spend money to fag-off projects and also spend money to commission. So, let’s save you the money for flagging off and entertaining when we are ready to tell you that this is what we have done with your money. Call me any day and anytime, the record is there.”

    Fubara said he had kept diligent records since he started working in the account department for the previous administration, even before the government of his predecessor, Chief Nyesom Wike.

    He said, “Right from the time I started working for the government, or the time I started taking responsibility for accounts, my records are there. I am not talking about the immediate past administration; I am talking about previous administrations before these ones.

    “The records are there, call me any day and I will show you the records. If it comes to issues of record keeping, it is my profession. So you don’t need to worry about what happens to your money. We are using your money for the interest of the Rivers people. We are using it for the betterment of Rivers State. We are using it as one of the things you are seeing here today, delivering on the needs of our people.

    “So let me assure you that we are not going to let any of you down. We know the sacrifices you have made for us, and for that reason alone, we are not going to take any of you for granted.

    “Continue to believe in us and listen to us when we speak to you, because we know that at the end of the day, our position God willing will be the true position of our dear state.

    Fubara acknowledged that the project was initiated by his predecessor before the 2023 general election after consulting Edison Ehie.

    Overwhelmed by the crowd mobilised by Ehie to receive him, Fubara told the former lawmaker to translate the number into tangible votes for the re-election of President Tinubu in 2027.

    Explaining further, he said, “This project was initiated by my predecessor, and it was because of the special support and the energy that he saw in the person of Rt. Hon. Edison Ehie.

    “He called him and said, what do you want me to do, because I want us to make sure that we dominate Ahoada-East and Ahoada-West in the forthcoming election, which is the 2023 election? Edison said at that time, this is the project I want you to do for the people. To the glory of God my predecessor initiated this project in November 2022.

    “As a matter of fact because of this project Edison Ehie gave his all in that election and our victory wasn’t questionable in both local government areas. So when we came on board, it is natural that we see to the completion of this project.

    “To show our support, we extended this project from the initial design and added 4.2 kilometers, which made it 14.2 kilometers. That is the little way we can say thank you for the support of your son. You have also demonstrated it today, that for every kilometer you gave us a cow, and that is 14 cows.

    “What have you demonstrated today? You have demonstrated love, and what do I owe you in return, it is to also support you. You have made a request here for the extension of the road; consider it done.

    “I have only one request. On my way in here, I couldn’t access my seat because of the mammoth crowd. This crowd, Edison Ehie and his group, I am asking translate this crowd to the support that we are going to give to Mr. President come 2027. We know that when this crowd comes out, it is a walkover here. You did it for me in 2023, start preparing the grounds for 2027 for Mr. President”.

  • Christmas celebrations: 4,000 NSCDC operatives deployed to man strategic places in Abuja

    Christmas celebrations: 4,000 NSCDC operatives deployed to man strategic places in Abuja

    No fewer than 4,000 operatives of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) would be on patrol throughout the period of the yuletide celebrations in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, to ensure peaceful and orderly celebrations of the festival.

    The Commandant of the NSCDC in charge of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, Dr Olusola Odumosu, ordered the deployment of the personnel across the city and its environs ahead of the celebration.

    The Command said the deployment was aimed at ensuring the security of the lives and property of FCT residents and Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI).

    The personnel cut across specialized departments and units such as the Arms Squad, Crack Squad, CNAI, Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear Explosives (CBRNE), Female Strike Force, Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU), and Agro Rangers.

    A statement from the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Monica Ojobi, said NSCDC operatives would watch over locations and soft targets such as churches, Shopping Malls, Recreational Centres, Markets, Motor Parks, Amusement parks, and areas housing Critical National Assets and Infrastructure.

    The Command warned would-be trouble makers to reconsider their plans as there are surveillance mechanisms everywhere, especially at black spots and uncompleted buildings, to prevent security breaches.

    The FCT Commander also enjoined all Area Commanders and Divisional Officers to ensure that their Area Councils are on top of their game and ensure maximum security.

    “All hands must be on deck; I will not tolerate any form of breaches; ensure your personnel comply adequately,” he said.

    Odumosu charged all personnel to be of good conduct and work in synergy with other security agencies.

    He advised them to adhere strictly to the rules of engagement, avoid harassment and intimidation of any citizen, as well as accidental discharge.

    He called on residents of the FCT to be vigilant and report any suspicious movements, individual or group, to any Security agency near them.

  • Stakeholders unveil Nigeria’s tax law ahead of 2026 EITI validation

    Stakeholders unveil Nigeria’s tax law ahead of 2026 EITI validation

    Stakeholders in the Extractive industries on Wednesday commenced an advocacy dialogue on the 2026 Nigeria validation by the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), among other things, unveiled the New Tax and Revenue Framework.

    Speaking in Abuja during the Advocacy Dialogue For Stakeholders on Implementation of the Global EITI, the Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) Executive Secretary, Hon. Musa Sarkin Adar said.

    “A key deliverable of this dialogue is the official unveiling of NEITI’s newest Policy Brief, “Beyond Assent: Pathways for Implementing Nigeria’s New Tax and Revenue Framework.”

    Represented by NEITI, Director Policy Planning and Strategy, Dr Dieter Bassi, he said while Nigeria has commendably passed crucial tax reforms into law, legislation alone does not guarantee results.

    According to him, the policy brief focuses on bridging the gap between policy approval and practical execution, addressing revenue leakages, robust revenue mobilization, and improving transparency in revenue management.

    Civil society and the media have critical roles to play in tracking the implementation of these new laws to ensure reforms genuinely translate into improved public value and citizen welfare.

    He also explained that the engagement requires civil society to provide concrete inputs into the comprehensive 2026 Nigeria EITI Work plan.

    Adar said the stakeholders’ insights and recommendations will directly and meaningfully shape how NEITI structures its implementation going forward.

    He commended the European Union and the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (EU-IIDEA) for providing essential support for this timely and important program.

    Meanwhile, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, said the dialogue came at a critical moment for Nigeria.

    He noted that as a nation, the country is navigating complex economic reforms, fiscal pressures, and heightened public expectations for accountability in the management of Nigeria’s natural resources.

    Akume, who is also the chairman of the National Stakeholders Working Group (NSWG), stressed that the extractive sector remains central to Nigeria’s economic stability, revenue mobilisation, and long-term development aspirations.

    He, however, said that it is also a sector where governance gaps, inefficiencies, and lack of transparency have historically constrained its full potential.

    Akume revealed that the findings and recommendations of NEITI reports over the years have become part of the major tools driving the ongoing reforms in the oil, gas, and mining sectors.

    He recalled that the 2023 EITI Standard assumed heightened relevance.

    Continuing, he said the “Standard challenges all implementing countries to not only disclose information but to ensure that transparency drives reform, strengthens institutions, and delivers tangible benefits to citizens.

    “For Nigeria, this means going beyond compliance to using EITI as a reform tool that supports domestic revenue mobilisation, prudent fiscal management, and inclusive governance.”

  • Tinubu’s tax reform designed to protect, not punish Nigerians – Ekiti IRS boss

    Tinubu’s tax reform designed to protect, not punish Nigerians – Ekiti IRS boss

    The Chairman of the Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service (EKIRS), Olaniran Olatona, has assured Nigerians that the new tax reform introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not designed to punish Nigerians but strengthen the economy and promote fairness in tax administration.

    Olatona gave the assurance in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, on Wednesday while speaking with journalists, dismissing fears that the reform scheduled to take effect in January 2026 would result in arbitrary deductions from individuals’ bank accounts.

    The EKIRS boss said that the tax reform forms part of President Tinubu’s broader economic agenda aimed at modernising Nigeria’s tax system, improving revenue generation, and ensuring equity across all sectors of the economy.

    Olatona allayed widespread fears that the new tax laws would empower tax authorities to make arbitrary deductions from personal bank accounts, stressing that the legal framework does not give tax authorities the power to withdraw money from personal bank accounts without due process.

    Olatona explained that the reform seeks to broaden the tax base, encourage voluntary compliance, eliminate multiple taxation, and plug revenue leakages, while creating an enabling environment for businesses to grow and contribute meaningfully to national development.

    He also debunked reports suggesting that Nigerians without Tax Identification Numbers would have their accounts frozen or be penalised, noting that the focus of the reform is to regularise and issue TINs to enhance efficiency in tax administration, not to victimise citizens.

    He further clarified that the reform does not imply an increase in taxes, adding that low-income earners are protected under the new framework and would only become liable when they attain the required income threshold.

    The EKIRS boss advised Nigerians to ensure accurate descriptions when carrying out bank transfers to avoid misinterpretation or unnecessary tax concerns under the new system.

    He cautioned traders and service providers against arbitrary increases in the prices of goods and services, saying the tax reform is expected to help reduce the cost of food and essential commodities rather than worsen economic hardship.

    While urging Nigerians to ignore misinformation, Olatona said EKIRS would continue to engage stakeholders and sensitise the public on the provisions and benefits of the reform to ensure smooth implementation.

    He commended President Tinubu’s economic reforms, which he said have helped stabilise the economy, and called on Nigerians to support the initiative by cooperating with tax authorities in the overall interest of sustainable national development.

    The EKIRS boss disclosed that EKIRS has commenced strategic engagements with traditional rulers, bank executives, and other stakeholders in Ekiti State, adding that artisans, small business owners, and private school proprietors would be engaged to sensitise them on the provisions and benefits of the reform to ensure successful implementation.

  • Gov Alia to appointees: Resign now if you want to contest

    Gov Alia to appointees: Resign now if you want to contest

    Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has directed office holders and political appointees who want to seek elective office in 2027 to resign on or before December 18.

    Governor Alia gave the directive through a signed statement by Deputy Governor Sam Ode on Tuesday.

    The statement read, “In light of the recent increase in political activities within the state, and having observed with keen interest the diverse aspirations for leadership roles aimed at promoting good governance, and advancing the laudable achievements of Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormen Alia’s administration, we wish to state the following:

    “Political appointees interested in contesting for elective positions are kindly requested to indicate their interest and submit a formal resignation letter accordingly.

    “All letters or expressions of interest for the office of your choice should be forwarded to the Office of the Deputy Governor of Benue State not later than Thursday, 18th December 2025.

    “This will enable their onward transmission to His Excellency, the Executive Governor, for further consideration and processing.

    The statement concluded by stating, “Your prompt attention to this matter is highly appreciated.

  • Border security: Nigeria re-elected into key global body

    Border security: Nigeria re-elected into key global body

    Nigeria has been re-elected to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Public Key Directory (PKD) for the sixth consecutive term following its outstanding performance and ongoing reforms in border security.

    The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nanna Nandap, led the Nigerian delegation to the PKD Board Meeting in Montreal, Canada, where the country secured the achievement.

    Nigeria was praised for its achievements through consistent contributions, shared implementation experiences, and innovations in Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), electronic Machine-Readable Travel Documents (eMRTD) verification, and digital identity harmonisation.

    According to the Public Relations Officer of the NIS, Akinsola Akinlabi, some of these innovations earned Nigeria international accolades and recognition during the meeting.

    Akinlabi explained in a statement issued in Abuja that Nigeria’s membership in the ICAO-PKD since 2009 played a pivotal role in shaping the directory’s strategic development and modernization.

    “This re-election recognizes Nigeria’s technical expertise, compliance, and dedication to ICAO’s Standards and Recommended Practices, further solidifying its position among fifteen esteemed Board Members drawn from 107 participating states,” he said

    Akinlabi further said the achievement reaffirmed the Nigeria Immigration Service’s commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, “particularly in fulfilling Nigeria’s international obligations and maintaining its active role within the global community.”

    He said the NIS remained steadfast towards upholding the highest standards of border security, advancing digital identity initiatives, and safeguarding the integrity of travel documents issued to Nigerians and residents.