The Comptroller General of Nigeria Immigration Service, Kemi Nanna Nandap, announced plans to launch a more accessible e-Visa application channel for short visits. This initiative aligns with the Nigeria Visa Policy 2020.
Nandap reiterated her commitment to fully implementing the e-Border Project. She made these announcements at the graduation ceremony of the 12th Command Course of the Immigration Command and Staff College in Sokoto. Assistant Comptroller General George C. Didel represented her at the event, according to a statement by DCI Kenneth Udo, Immigration Service Spokesman.
She stated the e-Visa initiative aims to streamline visa processes, fostering FDIs and boosting tourism. “We must embrace these reforms,” she emphasized. Enhancing internal control and monitoring mechanisms to track foreigners’ presence and activities is crucial. Emphasizing revitalizing NIS’s Divisional Offices, she urged improved participation in Security Council Meetings at various levels.
While discussing the e-Border project, Nandap mentioned the installation of e-Gates at international airports in Lagos and Abuja. She also highlighted the integration of the Advance Passenger Information System (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) to enhance border control and clearance systems.
She also highlighted the upcoming commissioning of the Command and Control/Data Centres at the NIS Headquarters in Abuja. These centres will significantly improve intelligence sharing and operational coordination to enhance National Security.
Additionally, Nandap charged Formation Heads to work assiduously towards ensuring the success of the automation of Passport application processes. This initiative aims to reduce human interface, curtail sharp practices, and enhance efficiency. She said the ongoing rollout of enhanced e-Passports will continue locally and at foreign missions until full transition is achieved. The CGI urged all NIS Formations to participate actively in the nationwide sensitization campaign against irregular migration, especially the smuggling of migrants.
Reiterating NIS’s commitment to capacity building for all Service cadres, CGI Nandap stressed the importance of engaging partners and stakeholders in sustaining training and capacity-building programs. She pledged to improve the welfare of NIS officers through timely promotions, affordable housing, and healthcare schemes.
The highlight of the event was the award of the “Passed Command Course” (PCC) to all participants. Directing staff received the “Dagger Merit Award (+)” in recognition of their dedication and hard work. Nandap urged the course participants to be agents of transformation and to uphold the highest standards of professionalism.
