ABUJA – The Federal Government has unveiled significant improvements in national border security and travel efficiency via a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
The partnership aims to considerably enhance Nigeria’s ability to oversee its borders effectively, pinpoint high-risk persons, and facilitate smooth passage for genuine travelers.
A statement issued by Ozeya Imohimi, the Director for Press & Public Relations, on Friday mentioned that this announcement occurred during a meeting focused on Implementing and Enforcing Immigration Protocols held at the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development located in Abuja.
Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, conveyed profound gratitude towards the Ministry of Aviation for their ongoing assistance, notably in deploying and implementing the Advanced Passenger Information System (APIS).
He stated that this advanced technology has contributed significantly to enhancing border security, leading to the apprehension of many individuals listed on INTERPOL’s red notice at Nigerian entry points. This success is attributed to the collaborative work between the two ministries involved.
This degree of achievement within our nation’s security framework became feasible solely due to our collective aim and common perspective as outlined in Mr. President's Renewed Hope Agenda," stated the Minister. "The Ministry of Aviation has played not just a supportive role but acted as a cornerstone in these endeavors.
At a shared press conference, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo highlighted the importance of the event as a key moment in cooperation between different government departments.
"What we are accomplishing today serves as an additional proof of this administration's commitment to encourage collaboration among crucial ministries that share similar responsibilities," he declared.
The Minister mentioned that leveraging the achievements of APIS, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) facilitated the deployment of electronic gates at key airports such as Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. These e-gates have been activated, thereby improving the effectiveness and safety of traveler transit.
He further explained that, the collaboration has also given rise to the next innovation—an automated e-visa system and digital landing and exit cards, replacing outdated paper forms that would make travelers coming to Nigeria complete these digital cards online prior to boarding.
He clarified that this program worked closely with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and marks significant progress toward updating Nigeria’s travel procedures.
"This goes beyond mere convenience; it’s about safeguarding our borders while maintaining our warmth and openness," observed the Minister. "Given its population of more than 230 million impressive individuals, Nigeria should take the forefront in technological advancement and creative thinking," stated the Minister.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo stated that the new e-visa system will provide a unified and streamlined approach to handling visa applications, supported by improved security screenings and connections to international crime databases like INTERPOL. This move aims to streamline processes, eliminating unnecessary red tape and middlemen, thereby enabling applicants to submit their requests and obtain visas more openly and effectively.
He said it would ensure smooth implementation and that the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and NCAA have agreed to establish a joint technical team to develop protocols and oversee the operational rollout of these new solutions.
Furthermore, the digital arrival and departure cards will be offered at no cost to every international traveler solely for enhancing national security and managing data efficiently.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo stated that this collaborative effort between ministries exemplifies good governance that values cooperation more than competition.
We're entering an unprecedented era where ministries collaborate rather than operate independently, all working together toward a single aim: safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty while embracing global engagement.
The Minister stated that both the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development confirmed their joint dedication to guaranteeing that visitors enjoy the finest aspects of the nation, which include security, advancement, and the unparalleled warmth of Nigeria’s citizens.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Barr. Festus Keyamo, expressed his dedication to working together with the Ministry of Interior. He recognized their ongoing cooperation and mentioned that this partnership had not been previously highlighted publicly before. According to him, they have held multiple private discussions aimed at resolving longstanding administrative hurdles.
We have pledged to work relentlessly and cohesively on this new initiative," Barr. Keyamo stressed. "Every agency participating is completely synchronized and dedicated to ensuring the successful execution of this crucial program.
The official launch of the new e-visa system, an advanced technological solution aimed at boosting security measures, encouraging travel and commerce, and simplifying entrance protocols for individuals visiting Nigeria, has been announced.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).
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