The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has pledged its commitment to leveraging technology, international cooperation and capacity building to address the challenges of border security facing the country.
This was disclosed by the Controller General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap at the Service’s 2024 Annual Conference that ended in Jos at the weekend.
Nandap said that the conference with the theme, ‘Enhancing Border Security and Migration Management in a Globalised World; Challenges and Opportunities for Nigerian’, created platform for participants to exchange ideas, proffer solutions, and brainstorm on ways to improve border security and develop sustainable strategies to reposition the Immigration Service towards enhanced national security and economic development.
She noted that the conference assessed the current state and preparedness of the NIS in meeting its statutory mandate; identifying emerging challenges and opportunities in border governance and migration management.
The Controller General said, “The Nigerian Immigration Service is committed to leveraging technology, international Cooperation and capacity building to address the challenges in the service. Our goal is to ensure the safety and security of Nigerians while facilitating regular migration management, promoting socio-economic inclusiveness, addressing cross-cutting issues and strengthening regional cooperation.”
In his remarks, National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Rabadu, noted that Nigeria is facing numerous challenges related to border security and migration management including national security threats such as terrorism, banditry and criminal activities, and that such activities weaken government structures.
Ribadu, who was represented by Mr. Okon Julius, encouraged collaboration efforts amongst security agencies and stakeholders which he said was essential for fostering a secured and prosperous future in the country.
On her part, the Deputy Governor of Plateau State, Mrs. Josphine Piyo, observed that Nigeria borders extend beyond land, sea, and air, warning that the service must prepare for the new frontier of cyberspace. “We must therefore build models for tactical management of the digital border.
She acknowledged that by working together, sharing knowledge and best practices, and fostering collaboration across borders, security will be enhanced and capacity to manage migrations will be effective.
Delivery a keynote address on ‘Enhancing Border Security and Immigration Management’, Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji Ojo, said that the country has finally woken up to the reality that our borders are productive and require adequate security in order to enhance more productivity. He added that the primary aim and role of the immigration service should not be relegated only to auxiliary roles; rather it should include border control, management, services, issuance of travel documents and migration.
He said that security all over the world is no longer reactive but proactive, advising Nigeria to be more proactive in providing security for borders.
Seriki Adinoyi
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