By Francis Wilfred
The Federal Government has announced major advancements in national border security and travel facilitation through a strategic partnership between the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
In accordance to the statement signed by the Director, Press & Public Relations, Ozoya Imohimi, the minister said that the collaboration is to significantly strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to manage its borders, identify high-risk individuals, and streamline entry for legitimate travelers.
The minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo made this announcement at the meeting on Implementation and Enforcement of Immigration Protocols that took place at the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development in Abuja.
The Minister expressed deep appreciation to the Ministry of Aviation for the consistent support, particularly in the deployment and implementation of the Advanced Passenger Information System (APIS). He said this cutting-edge technology has played a role in improving border control which has resulted in numerous individuals on INTERPOL’s red notice list being intercepted and handed over to international authorities at Nigerian entry points, an achievement credited to the joint efforts of both ministries.
“This level of success in our national security architecture was only made possible because of our unity of purpose and shared vision under the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President, “The Ministry of Aviation has not only been a partner but a pillar in these efforts” the Minister said.
Speaking at a joint press briefing, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo emphasized the significance of the occasion as a milestone in inter-ministerial collaboration. “What we are doing here today is a further testament to the determination of this government to foster cooperation between key ministries with overlapping mandates,” he stated.
He further noted that building on the success of APIS, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) supported the installation of e-gates at major airports including Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. These e-gates are now operational, further enhancing the efficiency and security of passenger movement.
He also 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has also given rise to the next innovation—an automated e-visa system and digital landing and exit cards, replacing outdated paper forms that would make travelers coming to Nigeria complete these digital cards online prior to boarding. This initiative, coordinated with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), represents a major step forward in modernizing Nigeria’s travel protocols.
“This is not just about convenience, it’s about securing our borders without compromising our hospitality,” the Minister noted. “With over 230 million brilliant people, Nigeria must lead in technology and innovation,” the Minister said.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasized that e-visa system will ensure a centralized, seamless process for visa applications, backed by enhanced background checks and integration with global criminal databases such as INTERPOL. This initiative will remove bureaucratic bottlenecks and eliminate the need for intermediaries, allowing travelers to apply and receive visas transparently and efficiently and would ensure smooth implementation.
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. More so, the digital landing and exit cards will be provided free of charge to all foreign travelers, strictly for national security and data management purposes.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo said this inter-ministerial synergy is a shining example of governance that prioritizes collaboration over rivalry. “We’re witnessing a new era where ministries work not in isolation, but in harmony for one purpose: protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty while welcoming the world.”
The Minister said both the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development reaffirmed their shared commitment to ensuring that travelers experience the best of what the country has to offer: safety, innovation, and the unmatched hospitality of the Nigerian people.
On the part of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Barr. Festus Keyamo, he reaffirmed his commitment to collaborating with the Ministry of Interior. He quite acknowledged the long standing synergy between the two ministries, noting that this was the first time such collaboration was being showcased publicly, stating that both ministries have engaged in several closed-door meetings to address long-standing bureaucratic challenges.
“We have agreed to work tirelessly and seamlessly on this new initiative”, “All agencies involved are fully aligned and committed to the successful implementation of this important program.” Keyamo emphasized.
The formal introduction of the new e-visa system, a streamlined, technology-driven platform is designed to enhance security, promote tourism and business, and simplify entry procedures for visitors to Nigeria.
