The federal government has issued a stern warning to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), urging its officials not to compromise national security by issuing e-visas to terrorists, persons of interest, or any other criminals.

This is even as it emphasised that the NIS must prioritise the nation?s security if it truly has the country?s best interests at heart.

The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, while officially opening a two-week intensive training session on electronic visa applications for selected 162 NIS officers, underscored the critical role of visas not only as a tool for migration but as an essential element of national security.

He further announced that the government was implementing plans to ensure that all foreign visa applications to Nigeria undergo thorough electronic vetting, screening, and approval within a stringent 24 to 48-hour timeframe.

Dr. Tunji-Ojo further emphasised that the administration of President Bola Tinubu was committed to building a serious, forward-thinking government, one that believes a new Nigeria is within reach.

He highlighted that President Tinubu?s Renewed Hope Agenda is deeply focused on the well-being of citizens and the country?s economic vitality. The administration is keen on opening the borders to legitimate business, with a strong emphasis on effective migration management and ensuring national security.

?As a serious nation, we are committed to opening our borders for tourism, economic participation, and, most importantly, business. Nigeria is a country led by a determined President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is here to disrupt the status quo and bring about what can only be described as the extraordinary. It?s a ?now or never? situation?either we embrace this change, or we miss out,? the Minister said.

He further stressed that achieving the transformation requires a vibrant, effective, and efficient Immigration Service. The federal government, he noted, cannot afford to compromise the safety and well-being of over 230 million Nigerians, the largest population in Africa.

?To the 162 officers selected for this critical role, you must be dedicated, honest, and serve as exemplary ambassadors. It is your responsibility to put an end to the frustrations people face when seeking a visa to Nigeria. You must call a spade a spade?compromise will not be tolerated.

?You all know I stand for what is right and have zero tolerance for compromise. If you fail in your duties, you will be removed. And let me be clear: it?s not just about being removed?there will be consequences. This is a national responsibility, and we must uphold it with the utmost integrity,? he stated.

The minister further added, ?Let it be clear that the Nigeria Immigration Service plays a pivotal role in enhancing the Ease of Doing Business, as well as promoting tourism, investment opportunities, and much more. This goes far beyond border security. Remember, you are the gatekeepers, the gateway to the nation?s growth and development. The impression you leave about Nigeria will have a lasting impact.

?You must ensure that terrorists and other criminals do not enter the country. Do not grant them e-visas.?

Earlier, the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Kemi Nana-Nandap, described the e-visa platform as an innovative system designed to enhance service efficiency and improve processes with greater transparency.

CG Nandap emphasised that the training of the 162 selected officers was a significant step, explaining that the new system would greatly assist in tracking who is entering Nigeria and when.

The NIS boss noted that the development marked a clear departure from previous practices. The platform allows for thorough vetting and ensures that all documentation is securely stored within the Nigeria Immigration Service.

She further disclosed that the trainees were carefully selected from various formations of the Service after a rigorous vetting process. However, they would still undergo examinations to determine the final selection of the best candidates for the task. (LEADERSHIP)

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