Nigeria has taken a decisive step to strengthen migration governance with the rollout of the Validated National Migration Policy, NMP 2025. The policy reflects a strategic shift toward balancing national security with economic facilitation. Representing the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Kemi Nandap Assistant Comptroller General (ACG) Mohammed Adamu underscored the urgency of a forward-looking framework amid rising global migration complexities.
He noted that borders now serve a dual purpose. They protect against transnational crimes while enabling trade and tourism. Therefore, Nigeria must maintain a delicate balance between security enforcement and ease of movement through sustained inter-agency collaboration.
Validated NMP 2025 Framework
Building on the 2015 framework, the Validated NMP 2025 introduces reforms that align with global standards, including commitments under the International Organization for Migration and the International Civil Aviation Organization. These reforms position Nigeria to respond effectively to emerging migration realities while safeguarding national interests.
The Comptroller-General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap, represented at the event, emphasised that migration remains a critical driver of development and international cooperation. However, evolving migration dynamics demand stronger institutional frameworks and technological innovation.
She highlighted that the Service has already introduced key initiatives. These include the e-Visa regime, Contactless Passport Application System, and the e-Border infrastructure. In addition, the rollout of the ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card reinforces regional mobility and identity management.
These initiatives collectively laid the groundwork for the Validated NMP 2025, ensuring that Nigeria’s migration system is not only modern but also resilient.
ACG Adamu: Sensitisation Key to Effective Implementation
Speaking on the sidelines, Assistant Comptroller General Mohammed Adamu described the sensitisation programme as a timely intervention. He said the initiative aims to deepen officers’ understanding of the policy for improved operational performance.
According to him, “This initiative is for our officers to understand migration policy better and enhance performance through capacity building.”
He added that facilitators from Abuja would equip personnel across commands with practical knowledge. This, he noted, would ensure uniform application of migration procedures nationwide.
Furthermore, ACG Adamu stressed that the scope of the Validated NMP 2025 is extensive. It covers border security challenges such as human trafficking, migrant smuggling, and terrorism. It also provides guidance on detection, prevention, and prosecution.
He reassured Nigerians that under the leadership of the Comptroller-General, Kemi Nanna Nandap, the Service remains committed to national security. Continuous sensitisation, he said, is critical to achieving this goal.
Low Awareness Drove Policy Overhaul
Earlier, Team Lead of the sensitisation programme, ACI Tope Arotiwa, SA-CGISon Special Duties, explained why the 2015 policy required urgent review. She revealed that only about 30 per cent of states were aware of the policy’s existence.
This gap, she noted, limited its effectiveness and led to inconsistent application. As migration patterns evolved, the old framework became inadequate for addressing emerging realities.
“The changing migration landscape and national security concerns made it necessary to review the policy,” he said.
The Validated NMP 2025 now addresses these gaps by strengthening awareness, coordination, and implementation mechanisms.
Building Capacity for Nationwide Impact
Arotiowa described the sensitisation programme as a strategic capacity-building effort. Officers are expected to internalise the policy and cascade the knowledge across their respective commands.
This approach ensures that the impact of the Validated NMP 2025 extends beyond workshops into daily operations. It also promotes professionalism and consistency in migration management.
She added that participants would gain a clearer understanding of the Service’s roles and responsibilities. This clarity is expected to enhance decision-making and operational efficiency.
Tackling Brain Drain and Migration Realities
The programme also addressed broader migration issues such as brain drain, brain waste, and brain gain. These trends, often linked to the “japa” phenomenon, continue to shape Nigeria’s migration landscape.
By incorporating these realities, the Validated NMP 2025 adopts a more holistic approach. It recognises migration not only as a security issue but also as a socio-economic phenomenon.
This perspective aligns with global frameworks like the Global Compact for Migration. It ensures that Nigeria’s policies remain relevant in an increasingly interconnected world.
Strengthening Collaboration and Governance
A key pillar of the Validated NMP 2025 is enhanced collaboration among government agencies. Migration management now requires coordinated efforts across security, economic, and social sectors.
The policy therefore promotes synergy between the Nigeria Immigration Service and other stakeholders. This includes law enforcement agencies, aviation authorities, and international partners.
Such collaboration is essential for addressing complex migration challenges. It also improves intelligence sharing and operational efficiency.
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A Forward-Looking Migration Framework
In conclusion, the Validated NMP 2025 represents a significant milestone in Nigeria’s migration governance journey. It builds on past frameworks while addressing present and future challenges.
The policy emphasises security, efficiency, and humanity. It also aligns with national priorities and international obligations.
However, its success will depend largely on implementation. Officers must remain committed, adaptable, and professional in applying its provisions.
With sustained sensitisation and collaboration, Nigeria is better positioned to build a migration system that supports development while safeguarding national security.
