NIS Deepens Digital, Border Reforms As CGIS Decorates Promoted Officers

The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Mrs. Kemi Nandap, has outlined plans to enhance ongoing institutional and digital reforms within the Service as newly promoted controllers and senior officers were formally decorated in Abuja on Monday.

Speaking at the ceremony, Nandap stated that the success of the reform agenda would largely depend on the quality of leadership provided by senior officers, urging those elevated to higher ranks to promote professionalism, accountability, and innovation across commands.

She noted that the reforms, which align with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aim to strengthen national security, improve service delivery, and position the NIS among the best immigration institutions globally.

According to the Comptroller General, promotions within the Service are earned through merit and discipline, and the officers’ advancements reflect confidence in their integrity, competence, and capacity to shoulder greater responsibilities.

“As senior officers, you are now central to enforcing standards, mentoring younger personnel, and ensuring that our reforms translate into measurable outcomes,” she said.

Nandap announced that the Service is expanding its digital transformation initiatives, which include reforms in visa processing, passport issuance, and border management systems to enhance efficiency and transparency.

She revealed the introduction of the Electronic Migration Border Information Centre (EMBIC), designed to improve intelligence gathering and inter-agency collaboration at Nigeria’s borders.

The Comptroller General also stated that the Single Travel Emergency Passport (STEP) would be launched early next year to replace the existing Emergency Travel Certificate (ETC), incorporating biometric and magnetic features to curb abuse and strengthen identity verification.

She acknowledged the support of President Bola Tinubu, describing his leadership as instrumental to the Service’s reform momentum, and praised the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for providing strategic oversight and policy direction.

While congratulating the newly promoted officers, Nandap cautioned that elevation comes with higher expectations, emphasising that the Service has zero tolerance for indiscipline, inefficiency, and unprofessional conduct.

She urged officers to remain adaptable in the face of evolving security threats and to prioritise institutional interests over personal considerations.

The event was attended by senior government officials, heads of sister security agencies, traditional leaders, retired immigration officers, and family members, reflecting broad stakeholder support for the Service’s reform drive.