The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nandap, has stated that it plans to unveil a more accessible and seamless e-visa application channel for short visits in line with the Nigeria Visa Policy 2020.
Nandap disclosed this while delivering her address delivered at the graduation ceremony of the 12th Command Course of the Immigration Command and Staff College, in Sokoto.
A statement signed by the Service Public Relations Officer (SPRO), Kenneth Udo, Abuja
The CGI, who was represented by Assistant Comptroller General (ACG) George Didel, informed that the new channel was designed to streamline visa processes, foster foreign direct investments (FDIs) and boost tourism.
“We must embrace these reforms and implement effective internal control and monitoring mechanisms.
“This is to track the presence and activities of all foreigners in Nigeria,” she said.
The NIS boss pointed out that she is committed to the full implementation of the e-Border Project,adding that this includes installing e-gates at international airports in Lagos and Abuja and integrating the Advance Passenger Information System (API)as well as Passenger Name Record (PNR) to enhance border control and clearance systems.
“These centres are expected to significantly improve intelligence sharing and operational coordination to enhance National Security,” she added.
Nandap also spoke on the need to revitalise NIS’s Divisional Offices and called for improved participation in Security Council Meetings.
She stated that this would be at the state and local government levels, as well as other ad hoc duties, with utmost professionalism and interagency collaboration.
Nandap urged NIS formation heads to work assiduously to ensure the success of the automation of Passport application processes, which according to her was intended to reduce human interface, curtail sharp practices, and enhance efficiency.
She pointed out that the ongoing rollout of enhanced e-passports would continue both locally and at foreign missions until the full transition was achieved.
She called on all NIS formations to participate actively in the nationwide sensitisation campaign against irregular migration, especially the Smuggling of Migrants(SOM).
NIS, Nandap said, is committed to capacity building for all service cadres, adding that the importance of engaging partners and stakeholders in sustaining training and capacity-building programmes.
The CGI stated that she is very much committed to improving the welfare of men and officers of NIS through timely promotions, affordable housing, and health care schemes.
She urged participants to be agents of transformation and to uphold the highest standards of professionalism.
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