By Tolúlopé Olátúnjí
In a bid to streamline e-visa procedures for short visits and enhance accessibility, Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nandap, has unveiled plans to implement an efficient visa system in line with the country’s Visa Policy 2020.
Nandap made this announcement during her address at the 12th Command Course graduation ceremony of the Immigration Command and Staff College in Sokoto.
The NIS chief, ably represented by the Assistant Comptroller General (ACG) George Didel, said the new e-visa system aims to simplify visa processes, attract Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs), and boost tourism.
Nandap explained:”We must embrace these reforms and implement effective internal control and monitoring mechanisms to track the presence and activities of all foreigners in Nigeria,”
For efficient e-visa process, the Comptroller General reiterated her commitment to the full implementation of the e-Border Project, which includes installing e-gates at international airports in Lagos and Abuja, and integrating the Advance Passenger Information System (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) to enhance border control and clearance systems.
Meanwhile, these measures are expected to significantly improve intelligence sharing and operational coordination, thereby enhancing national security.
She stressed the importance of professionalism and interagency collaboration in these efforts, highlighting the need to revitalise NIS’s Divisional Offices and called for improved participation in Security Council Meetings at the State and Local Government levels.
Additionally, Nandap urged formation heads to ensure the success of the automated Passport application processes, aimed at reducing human interface, curbing malpractices, and enhancing efficiency. She confirmed that the rollout of enhanced e-Passports would continue both locally and at foreign missions until full transition is achieved.
The CG also called on all NIS formations to actively participate in the nationwide sensitization campaign against irregular migration, particularly the Smuggling of Migrants (SOM).
On her take on training programs of NIS staff, she emphasized NIS’s commitment to capacity building for all service cadres and the importance of engaging partners and stakeholders.
Furthermore , Nandap pledged to improve the welfare of NIS personnel through timely promotions, affordable housing, and healthcare schemes. She encouraged course participants to be agents of transformation and uphold the highest standards of professionalism.
At the end of the ceremony, there was an award presentation for the “Passed Command Course” (PCC) and the “Dagger Merit Award (+)” to all participants and directing staff, in recognition of their dedication and hard work.
