The Federal Government has introduced automated systems for verifying travel documents to strengthen border security, prevent migrant smuggling, and improve surveillance across Nigeria’s entry points.
This initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to bolstering internal security and combating human trafficking.
Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the development during the private screening of the documentary “Know Before You Go: The Dark Web of Migrant Smuggling in Nigeria” in Abuja. The documentary, created by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and supported by the Canadian government, highlights the risks of migrant smuggling and the importance of safe migration.
Speaking through the ministry’s Director of Press, Mr. Ozoya Imohimi, the minister emphasized the importance of efficient migration processes in promoting national security. “This administration, founded on the principle of renewed hope, recognizes the need for effective border management and document integrity,” he said.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo revealed that Nigeria has achieved significant improvements in border surveillance and the automation of travel document verification. “Our focus remains on securing borders, addressing irregular entry points, and ensuring that migration is orderly and safe,” he added.
The minister also reiterated Nigeria’s resolve to tackle its internal challenges, stating, “We are not exporting liabilities to other nations. Instead, we aim to fortify our borders and share our strengths with the world. Over the past year, we’ve made tremendous progress in these areas.”
The Comptroller-General of the NIS, Kemi Nanna Nandap, commended the UNODC and the Canadian government for their support in addressing migrant smuggling and enhancing border security measures.
UNODC Country Representative, Mr. Cheikh Toure, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to working with the NIS to sustain the Smuggling of Migrants (SOM) Observatory research and other initiatives.
Chargé d’Affaires of the Canadian High Commission, Mr. Michael Murphy, praised the collaboration with Nigeria, emphasizing Canada’s strategy to prevent migrant smuggling and disrupt trafficking networks through international partnerships.
The documentary serves as an awareness campaign targeting Nigerian youths, educating them about the dangers of human trafficking and smuggling. It also promotes safe migration practices and calls for stronger collaboration with civil society groups to combat these issues.
This development underscores Nigeria’s commitment to leveraging technology and international cooperation to enhance border security and migration processes.
