The Nation Newspaper

Tag: immigration

  • Immigration rallies Customs, Police, others against terror threats in Gulf of Guinea

    Immigration rallies Customs, Police, others against terror threats in Gulf of Guinea

    PARTICIPANTS at a regional workshop on Maritime Border Security which opened in Lagos yesterday will sharpen their skills in counter-terrorism techniques.

    At the workshop on how to rid West and Central Africa of terrorism and other criminal activities were personnel from the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigeria Police Force, Gulf of Guinea and other international security organisations.

    They include: security and intelligence agents from Italy, Philippines, Mauritius, Togo, Britain, Cameroun, Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire, Benin Republic, Seirra leone, Sao Tome, Germany and Denmark.

    Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who opened the workshop, appreciated the NIS for taking the lead in the review of Nigeria’s border strategic policy.

    Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasized the importance of border security in the general wellbeing of Nigerians, while reiterating the readiness of the federal government to take difficult decisions in protecting the Nigerian border.

    NIS Comptroller-General Mrs. Kemi Nana Nandap said the workshop captures the collective resolve of governments in West and Central Africa to tackle piracy, terrorism, illicit arms’ flow, migrant smuggling, human trafficking and stowaway, among other transnational organised crimes.

    Mrs. Nandap noted that the Atlantic coast of the Gulf of Guinea, particularly near Nigeria, is notorious for piracy and other maritime crimes.

    The workshop has “Maritime security in the context of counter-terrorism in the Gulf of Guinea” as its theme.

    The NIS boss stated that maritime insecurity from illegal oil bunkering, fishing, piracy, armed robbery and oil-related crimes threaten vessel and crew safety, adding that these threats undermine regional stability and hinder economic growth and integration.

    She said described the theme of the workshop as apt and timely in evaluating and rethinking security under the present circumstances of evolving maritime threats in the Gulf of Guinea.

    Mrs. Nandap said: “In addition, the ECOWAS Sub-Committee of Chiefs of Naval Staff meeting was held in Praia, Cabo Verde, from February 25 to 27, 2025, to discuss critical maritime security issues in the region.

    “This Workshop further emphasizes our collective resolve to tackle piracy, terrorism, illicit flow of arms, migrant smuggling, human trafficking and stowaway, among other transnational organised crimes. We aim to achieve this through sound policies, capacity building, community engagement, collaboration, and regional partnerships.

    “Along West Africa’s Atlantic coast, the Gulf of Guinea is known for piracy, especially near Nigeria. It spans several countries, including Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, São Tomé and Príncipe, Ivory Coast, Togo, Benin, and Ghana. Due to its offshore oil and gas reserves, the region plays a crucial role in the global energy sector.

    “Beyond oil and gas, harnessing the economic potential of the Gulf of Guinea resonates with Agenda 2063: the Africa We Want, and the 2050 African Integrated Marine Strategy, Policy Framework, and Reform strategy for fisheries and aquaculture in Africa.

    “However, maritime insecurity from illegal oil bunkering, fishing, piracy, armed robbery, and oil-related crimes threaten vessel and crew safety.

    “These threats undermine regional stability and hinder economic growth and integration. And this is the reason why we are gathered here today to find actionable solutions.

    “I know the urgent priority of innovating countermeasures by deploying advanced surveillance systems and communication technologies for early detection and response.

    Read Also: UK slashes graduate visa period, tightens immigration rules

    “Mitigating maritime threats in this vital region requires a broad spectrum of initiatives, not limited to international collaboration but fortifying defence capabilities in the marine domain.

    “The NIS plays a pivotal role in maritime border security while ensuring that foreign terrorist fighters and other criminal elements do not exploit our territorial integrity.”

    The NCS Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Mr. Adewale Adeniyi, emphasized the need to close existing gaps in the country’s financial system, noting that terrorists have exploited these loopholes to fund their activities.

    Inspector-General Kayode Egbetokun, disclosed that the Police have finalized plans to strengthen marine security operations.

  • Immigration Service repatriates 62 Malians

    Immigration Service repatriates 62 Malians

    The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Illela Border Command in Sokoto State, has confirmed the repatriation of 62 Republic of Mali nationals through the Illela Control Post.

    The Controller of the command, Mr. Tony Akuneme, who made this known in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja, added that they comprised of 51 males and 11 females.

    Akuneme said the Mali nationals were escorted from the NIS headquarters in Abuja to Illela Border in Sokoto, by a team of eight officers led by Insp. Mamoud Sadiq, in two buses.

    He said the team arrived the border post at about 8:00pm on Friday.

    “Upon their arrival, I directed the Assistant Controller in charge of Human Resources, Adamu Mshelia, who also doubled as the Officer in Charge of Anti-Smuggling Unit (ANTISOM) to oversee the proper documentation of the repatriated individuals.

    “After due procedures, the irregular migrants were handed over to officers of the Niger Republic Police at the Birnin Konni control post.

    “At Birnin Konni, the migrants underwent another round of screening and documentation before being received by the Commisere, the police chief of the area,” he added.

    In a related development, the NIS boss said that the construction of both mega and mini Forward Operating Bases (FOB) was ongoing at the Illela control post.

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    He said the upgrade by the NIS Controller-General, Kemi Nandap, was in continuation of her drive to rid the country of irregular migrants across the 36 states and FCT.

    “The construction company has commenced land clearance and demolition of some dilapidated and unserviceable structures.

    “We appreciate the CG for this upgrade, which aligns with her commitment to curbing irregular and prohibited migration across the country,” he said.

    Akuneme assured the public that the situation remains calm in Illela and Tangaza areas, with military and security personnel maintaining presence to address threats from Lakurawa bandits.

  • Tinubu extends tenure of Immigration boss

    Tinubu extends tenure of Immigration boss

    n a move aimed at consolidating recent advancements in immigration management, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved an extension of the tenure of Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Mrs. Kemi Nanna Nandap. 

    According to a statement on Monday by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Mrs Nandap will now serve in the role until December 31, 2026.

    Mrs. Nandap, who began her career in the NIS on October 9, 1989, was initially appointed by President Tinubu as Comptroller-General on March 1, 2024, with a term set to end on August 31, 2025. 

    However, her tenure has been extended by over a year, reflecting the administration’s confidence in her leadership and the progress made under her stewardship.

    Since taking charge, Mrs. Nandap has overseen significant improvements in border management, the modernization of immigration processes, and the strengthening of national security measures. 

    Her leadership has been instrumental in driving reforms that align with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    Commending her performance, Tinubu urged Mrs. Nandap to remain committed to the strategic priorities of the Service, ensuring Nigeria’s territorial integrity while facilitating safe and legal migration. 

    The President also reiterated his administration’s dedication to supporting the NIS in achieving its mandate of bolstering national security and streamlining immigration services.

  • FG clarifies shooting of Immigration officer

    FG clarifies shooting of Immigration officer

    The Federal Government has clarified the alleged shooting of Immigration officer by a Chinese businessman in Minna, Niger state.

    The Minister of Interior Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo offered the clarification in a statement by his media aide, Alao Babatunde in Abuja. 

    Tunji-Ojo said: “Following the report of the alleged shooting of an officer of the Nigeria Immigration Service in Niger State, further investigations have revealed that the officer was hit by a stray bullet that was neither shot on the order of the Chinese company nor its employee.

    Read Also: FG angry over shooting of Immigration officer by Chinese businessman

    “A full-fledged investigation has been launched into the shooting of the personnel in collaboration with other security agencies. 

    “This is to unravel the detailed circumstances surrounding the shooting while giving assurance that anyone found culpable will be brought to book.

    “The Minister reaffirms his strong commitment to ensuring the safety, dignity, and professional integrity of all law enforcement officers. 

    “He emphasises the government’s ongoing support for law-abiding businesses in Nigeria and reiterates the Ministry of Interior’s dedication to fostering strong partnerships with foreign nationals, aiming to build sustainable collaboration for social economic development.”

  • Immigration officer docked over alleged N17.6m multiple salaries receipts

    Immigration officer docked over alleged N17.6m multiple salaries receipts

    For allegedly receiving N17.6million salaries from three government agencies, an officer of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Abubakar Mohammed Aseku, an Assistant Superintendent of Immigration (ASI), has been arraigned by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

    Aseku was accused of drawing salaries from two other government agencies in addition to his statutory earnings as an employee of the NIS, a Federal Government agency.

    The suspect was arraigned before Justice Binta Dogonyaro of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Apo, Abuja, on a nine-count charge bordering on abuse of office and corruption, a statement by the spokesman for ICPC, Demola Bakare, said yesterday.

    According to the ICPC, Aseku allegedly received N4.2 million in salaries from the Nasarawa State Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology in 2015, while working as a teacher, despite being on active duty with the NIS.

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    He was further alleged to have drawn N13.4 million in salaries from the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) between 2018 and 2019, while employed by the Immigration Service.

    The ICPC alleged that Aseku, as a Pay Officer with the NIS, facilitated the payment of N4.7 million in salaries to seven individuals who were neither employees of the NIS nor on its payroll.

    One of the charges reads:

     “That you, Abubakar Mohammed Aseku, between October 2018 and October 2019, in Abuja, while serving as an Assistant Superintendent Immigration Officer, used your position to confer corrupt advantage upon yourself by receiving a total sum of N13,400,889.90 in salaries from the Department of Petroleum Resources, while concurrently employed by the Nigerian Immigration Service…’’

  • National security: Immigration warns over emergence of new religious sect

    National security: Immigration warns over emergence of new religious sect

    • …says group involved in human trafficking, child separation

    The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), has cautioned on the emergence of a new  religious sect called  ACHAD Life Mission International.

    According to a circular issued by the NIS headquarters to all directorates, zones ,training institutions and commands, the Service  requested them to be vigilant and report immediately any sign of the sect.

    It also directed the personnel to carry out   possible arrest of members of the sect and revert accordingly.

    While seeking strict compliance of the directive, the NIS said intelligence report at its disposal reveals that the sect has-been canvassing for members within and outside the country.

    Read Also: Lakurawa: Immigration steps up surveillance at borders

    The NIS said the sect is suspected to be involved  in human trafficking and child separation.

    The circular, dated January 14, 2025 and  titled ” “Emergence of a new Sect named ACHAD Life Mission International”, was signed by the Principal Staff Officer (PSO) , Comptroller Adedotun Aridegbe , on behalf the  Comptroller General of Nigeria Immigration Service,  Mrs Kemi Nandap.  

    It reads: “I am directed to inform that the intelligence gathered by the Service reveals the emergence of a new Sect called ACHAD Life Mission International.

    “The intelligence reports that the sect has  its headquarters in Kaduna, while its leader, one Mr.Yokana , lives in Jos, Plateau State.

    “It further notes that the sect neither believes in Islam nor Christianity, but preaches the restoration of the African tradition and support to humanity.”

  • BREAKING: Immigration names centre after Tinubu

    BREAKING: Immigration names centre after Tinubu

    The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has named its command and control centre after President Bola Tinubu.

    The Controller General of the NIS, Mrs. Kemi Nanna Nandap, announced this at the inauguration of the Centre in Abuja on Tuesday by the President.

    “It is both an honour and a privilege to stand before you today, as we mark a momentous occasion in the history of the Nigeria Immigration Service and, indeed, in the development of our great nation.

    “Today, we gather to commission the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Technology Innovation Complex—BATTIC—here at the NIS Headquarters,” Mrs Nandap said.

    “This cutting-edge facility is a true testament to Nigeria’s forward-thinking approach to digital transformation and national security.

    “BATTIC is more than just a building; it is a leap forward, a bold step in modernizing our immigration infrastructure, and a powerful tool in our ongoing efforts to safeguard the nation’s borders, manage migration effectively, and enhance national security”, the CG added.

    Mrs Nandap who commended the President for the reforms in the Service and his support for the projects, said the Centre has achieved certification with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and integrated with the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

    She also lauded the National Security Adviser to the President, the Ministers of Interior, Aviation, and the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Fagbemi, SAN for their contributions to the success of the projects.

    The Immigration boss said the project would ensure the integrity and accountability of individuals entering Nigeria.

    Nandap said: “Additionally, BATTIC is a multi-faceted complex comprising several critical components that will play a pivotal role in Nigeria’s security and migration management.

    “These include the Command-and-Control Centre for Regular Migration, the NIS Data Centre and Visa Approval Centre, the Interior Data Centre,

    The Passport Personalization Centre, the ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card (ENBIC) Centre, and the 0.5KW Solar Farm.

    “Each of these components has been meticulously designed to meet international standards, ensuring that Nigeria not only catches up with global trends but becomes a leader in the management of migration data.

    “With BATTIC, we are setting a new benchmark in the use of technology to protect our borders and enhance national security.

    “At the heart of BATTIC’s mission is its ability to manage and analyze varying levels of data efficiently, using state-of-the-art technology.

    “Allow me to highlight some of the key functions and capabilities of this remarkable facility,

    Advanced Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) Analysis.

    “This enables us to assess the risk levels of passengers even before they arrive in Nigeria or depart from their country of origin.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Tinubu to inaugurate Immigration command, control centre in Abuja

    “Identification of Suspicious Travel Patterns: By analyzing travel data, we can detect anomalies that may indicate potential security threats.

    “The complex will support real-time video surveillance to monitor unmanned border areas across the federation, ensuring a constant watch on border activities.

    “Integrated Communication Platform: BATTIC will facilitate seamless communication across all levels—from Border Patrol Units to Border Control Posts, State Commands, the Service Headquarters, and the Ministry of Interior.

    “Cross-Referencing with National and International Watchlists: Data will be cross-checked against various national and global security databases, including INTERPOL, to ensure no security threats slip through the cracks.

    “In essence, BATTIC will serve as the central hub for our digital infrastructure, dramatically enhancing our surveillance capabilities, streamlining migration management, and strengthening our national security framework.”

  • Immigration Service launches renewal of contactless passports for Nigerians in Diaspora

    Immigration Service launches renewal of contactless passports for Nigerians in Diaspora

    Nigerians in diaspora are to enjoy renewal of their passports without contacts with Immigration officials as the Nigeria Immigration Service, (NIS) announced the launch of digital Passports acquisition beginning from November 1.

    The  NIS said digital passports acquisition would begin in Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States of America and other countries around the world following a comprehensive reform of its system. 

    “This new contactless system allows Nigerians to renew their passports online, significantly reducing the need for in-person visits to NIS offices,” the Immigration authorities said. 

    The NIS announced on its website details of the roll out of the digital Passports for Nigerians in diaspora, maintaining that the online services would begin with Canada in November 1.

    “After Canada, the service will expand to the United Kingdom, United States, and Italy on November 15, with availability in Nigeria and other global locations by December 1,” the Service further announced. 

    A statement from the office of the Public Relations Officer of the NIS, Deputy Controller of Immigration, Kenneth Udo reads:

    “In its continued effort to serve the Nigerian public more efficiently and create a functional system that meets global standards, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has launched a new contactless issuance process starting from November 1st, 2024.

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    “The new system aims to enhance accessibility for Nigerians living abroad. 

    “Individuals will be able to apply to renew their international passports from the comfort of their homes without having to visit any NIS office”.

    The NIS urged Nigerians to take advantage of the opportunity to renew their passports by downloading the NIS mobile app.

    It said the app would be available on Google Play, the App Store, and the Windows Store.

  • Immigration CG toured Southwest borders, commits to e-border security, migration management

    Immigration CG toured Southwest borders, commits to e-border security, migration management

    In continuation of efforts to bolster border security and streamline Migration Management, the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) Kemi Nandap has extended her border assessment tour to Lagos and Ogun States in the Southwest. 

    The tour, according to a statement by NIS spokesperson, KT Udo, is part of the Comptroller General’s fact-finding and sensitisation mission aimed at reinforcing the collective responsibility of securing Nigeria’s vast borders. 

    During the tour, she highlighted the importance of sustained synergy among stakeholders in combating Trans-border crimes.

    In Lagos, the CGIS engaged with key stakeholders, including the Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty Rilwan Babatunde Osuolale Aremu Akiolu and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. 

    The discussions were centred around possibilities on how to continuously ease the operations of NIS personnel in the state. The Governor lauded the CGIS’s leadership and expressed readiness to support the Service’s initiatives.

    At Seme Border, Idiroko, as well as Lagos and Ogun State Commands, the CGIS updated officers on new Immigration initiatives. 

    These advancements, she said, were part of the on-going  drive to modernise Nigeria’s Border security infrastructure. 

    She reiterated commitment to officer’s welfare and capacity building, urging them to maintain high level of professionalism in the discharge of their duties.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Tinubu appoints Nandap as Comptroller-General of Immigration

    The CGIS held a Joint security meeting with sister-agencies towards enhancing collaboration in intelligence gathering and sharing. 

    She emphasised the vital role of border communities in supporting border security efforts. 

    The tour concluded in Ogun State where the CGIS met with traditional rulers, including the Alake and paramount ruler of Egbaland, HRM Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo III, CFR and the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, HRM Oba Prof. Saka Adeola Matemilola. 

    She also met Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele to discuss logistic support and land provision for barracks construction.

  • Immigration Service decorates 15 ACGs, 95 Comptrollers, others with new ranks

    Immigration Service decorates 15 ACGs, 95 Comptrollers, others with new ranks

    No fewer than 15 newly promoted Assistant Comptrollers-General (ACGs) of Immigration and 95 Comptrollers of Immigration were decorated with their new ranks at the Headquarters of the Nigeria Immigration Service, (NIS) Abuja on Friday.

    The decorations were done by Special Guests, including former Comptrollers-General, representatives of Serving Heads of Para-military institutions and the Secretary of the Board of Civil Defence Corps, Correctional Service, Fire and Immigration Services, Alhaji Ja’afaru Ahmed.

    Five Immigration officers were given Special Promotions in recognition of their outstanding contributions, performances and proven records of integrity in the service.

    The Comptroller-General of Immigration Service, NIS, Kemi Nanna Nandap said a total of 13,977 officers were promoted in the Service by the Federal Government, saying the promotion was historic as it ended years of stagnation in the NIS.

    She explained that of the 13, 977, Assistant Comptrollers-General were 15, while 95 were promoted to the rank of Comptrollers of Immigration.

    According to Mrs Nandap, 6,697 officers rose from Assistant Superintendent of Immigration II (ASI2) to Assistant Comptroller of Immigration (ACI) and 7,280 personnel advanced from Immigration Assistant II (IA2) to Inspector of Immigration (II).

    Mrs Nandap who described the promotions as well-deserved, noted that was a mark of “acknowledging their hard work, exceptional dedication and commitment to serving the nation especially at management cadre.”

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    She praised the Minister of Interior Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo for working tirelessly to see the promotions through and also commended the officers/men of NIS for their loyalty, sacrifices and the support given to them by their family members and friends.

    She, however, said the ongoing reforms in the NIS placed more responsibilities on officers and men of the Service to re-educate themselves to the service of the nation and help improve the country’s security architecture in border management and security.

    Mrs Nandap said: “This mass promotion, unprecedented in scope and impact, sends a powerful message about our commitment to rewarding excellence, fostering growth, and building a Service that is not only motivated but also equipped to meet the demands of a modern and complex world.

    “This promotion must be seen as a call to greater responsibility. With a renewed focus on border governance, migration management, and the application of cutting-edge technology in our operations, we are determined to create a Service that is responsive to the needs of Nigeria in the 21st century.

    “Therefore, the Nation and Service in particular places greater trust in your capabilities and as such, you must redouble your efforts to face complex challenges.

    “Your leadership experience and managerial skills; integrity and strategic thinking will be essential in your new responsibilities to reposition the NIS as a key player in the security architecture of our country.

    “The NIS, and indeed the nation, looks to you for leadership in critical areas such as securing our borders, enhancing migration control, and maintaining the integrity of our immigration processes.”

    The Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Ja’afaru Ahmed said the era of stagnation in the paramilitary services is gone and urged officers and men to rededicate themselves to the Service of the country.

    Ahmed commended President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Interior Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo for changing the narratives of the paramilitary institutions, saying promotions carried out in the Services within the past 16 months were unprecedented.