By Hyacinth Eku, Abuja
The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji -Ojo has announced significant reforms in the country’s passport, visa, and correctional services.
Speaking at the Mid Tenure/2025 Sectoral Performance Review Retreat organized by the Ministry on Thursday at the Zuma Rock Resort, Suleja, Niger State, Dr. Tunji-Ojo highlighted the need for modernization and efficiency in these critical areas.
The Minister revealed that the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has introduced a new system for passport application, which allows Nigerians in the diaspora to undergo biometric verification and interviews at Nigerian embassies.
This move aims to streamline the passport application process and reduce the risk of document forgery.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo also announced that the NIS has introduced an electronic visa (e-visa) system, which enables applicants to receive their visas within 48 hours.
This move is expected to boost economic activity and facilitate travel to Nigeria.
He highlighted the need for reform in the correctional services sector, citing issues with prison congestion and the need for rehabilitation and restoration.
He announced that the Ministry has partnered with the private sector to decongest prisons and reduce the financial burden on government.
Some of the key achievements highlighted by the Minister include: Payment of fines for over 4,000 inmates, saving the government over N1 billion; Introduction of a centralized passport personalization center, which can produce high-quality passports with enhanced security features; Implementation of a data center and command and control center to enhance security and data management and; Recruitment of 30,000 personnel across various agencies to strengthen security and improve service delivery
The Minister outlined future plans, including the removal of passport approval powers from the NIS and the introduction of a new system for private security companies.
He also emphasized the need for collaboration with state governments to address issues with correctional services and to ensure that the country’s security needs are met.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo’s speech highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to reform and modernization in critical areas of security and service delivery.
The Minister’s emphasis on efficiency, accountability, and collaboration with stakeholders is expected to drive progress and improve the lives of Nigerians.
Stakeholders at the Mid Tenure/2025 Sectoral Performance Retreat of the Federal Ministry of Interior and It’s Agencies in Suleja on Thursday.
