Immigration Service Enters Digital Age with 689 Cadets’ Graduation

Nigeria’s immigration management has officially entered a digital era, combining technology, operational efficiency, and citizen-focused service delivery, the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced on Saturday.

The declaration came at the passing-out parade of 689 cadets of the 50th Superintendent Basic Course at the Immigration Training School in Kano. Tunji-Ojo, represented by the Secretary to the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), retired Maj.-Gen. Abdulmalik Jibrin, said the reforms were a key part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda.

“We are committed to building a smarter, more secure, and service-oriented immigration system. Some of our recent innovations include electronic gates at airports, digital landing and exit cards, a centralised passport production system, and real-time electronic border surveillance,” the minister said.

He explained that these initiatives would boost national security, streamline operations, and strengthen public trust in the service. Cadets were urged to embrace professionalism, emotional intelligence, and a zero-tolerance stance on corruption.

“Your uniform represents authority. Use it to protect, not intimidate. Be the face of our nation at its borders with integrity and discipline,” Tunji-Ojo said.

The Comptroller-General of Immigration, Mrs. Kemi Nanna Nandap, said the reforms were positioning the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) to meet global standards. She highlighted key innovations including the deployment of e-Border solutions, establishment of a Special Border Force, introduction of body cameras at airports, advanced passenger information systems, electronic expatriate residence permits, and the new eVisa application platform.

“These reforms aim to strengthen border governance, improve migration management, and enhance service delivery for Nigerians and foreigners alike. The dynamic global environment demands officers who are ICT-competent, resilient, and professional,” Nandap said, urging cadets to reject unethical practices and champion institutional reforms.

The Commandant of the Immigration Training School, Kano, Comptroller Idris Akande-Ozigi, noted that the cadets had undergone six months of intensive training to prepare for the challenges of national service.

Governor Abba Kabir-Yusuf of Kano State, represented by the Commissioner for Internal Security, retired Air Vice-Marshal Ibrahim Umar, congratulated the cadets and pledged the state government’s support for the training institution.

The graduation parade, marked by ceremonial precision and drills, was attended by heads of security agencies, members of the Kano Emirate Council, families of the cadets, and other dignitaries.