FG Committed to Strengthening Nigeria's Migration Framework, Says Interior Minister
Interior Minister Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has reaffirmed the Federal Government's unwavering commitment to strengthening Nigeria's migration framework. This initiative aims to enhance national security, improve service delivery, and facilitate investment across the country.
Key Reforms and Security Focus
Speaking during a visit by the Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Mohammed Bello Shehu, Tunji-Ojo emphasized that enhancing national security is of paramount importance. He highlighted several key reforms designed to modernize Nigeria's migration processes:
- Introduction of an electronic visa system to streamline entry procedures
- Implementation of a digital platform for managing expatriate permits
- Focus on improving efficiency, transparency, and compliance in migration services
The minister also stressed the importance of inter-agency collaboration and strict adherence to constitutional provisions regarding citizenship matters.
Revenue and Investment Collaboration
RMAFC Chairman Mohammed Bello Shehu commended the Ministry of Interior's role in boosting government revenue. He expressed interest in deeper collaboration on investment monitoring and citizenship-by-investment initiatives, recognizing the ministry's critical function in facilitating economic growth through improved migration frameworks.
Recognition for Retired Officers
In a separate meeting on Thursday, Minister Tunji-Ojo received a delegation of retired Controllers, Commandants, and Comptrollers General from services under the Ministry of Interior. The delegation was led by Mr. Chukwurah Joseph Udeh, a retired Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service.
The minister noted that their visit followed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's approval of lifetime salary for the nation's retired paramilitary officers. Tunji-Ojo spoke about the significant achievements of the Ministry of Interior under his leadership since 2023:
- Reinstatement of timely and predictable career progression through regular promotions
- Enhanced salaries for paramilitary officers
- Modernization of infrastructure across ministry services
- Full restoration of a culture of professionalism
"Not only do we owe our retired officers respect," Tunji-Ojo stated, "this government believes also that those who defend Nigeria must be defended by Nigeria in return."
The minister's statements underscore the Federal Government's comprehensive approach to migration management, combining technological innovation with respect for those who have served the nation's security apparatus.
