The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has taken a significant step towards strengthening its border management capabilities through a collaborative project with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the Government of Italy. This initiative aims to enhance the operational capacity of NIS personnel, particularly at remote and high-risk border locations. The project, which spans 18 months, is designed to improve the Service's mobility, surveillance, and digital infrastructure.
The project was officially launched at the United Nations House in Abuja, during a high-level meeting convened by UNODC. At the event, NIS Comptroller General, Kemi Nandap, expressed her gratitude to the Government of Italy and UNODC for their sustained support in strengthening the capacity of the Service. She emphasized that the new equipment would significantly boost NIS's operational efficiency.
The new equipment includes 30 operational vehicles and 60 computers, which will be used to enhance border surveillance and control. According to Akinsola Akinlabi, Public Relations Officer of NIS, this intervention aims to increase the presence and operational effectiveness of NIS personnel at remote and high-risk border locations. This move is expected to significantly improve Nigeria's border management system.
The Ambassador to Nigeria, Roberto Mengoni, reaffirmed Italy's commitment to supporting Nigeria's efforts to strengthen border management and institutional capacity. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the two countries in addressing common security challenges. Italy's support is seen as a significant boost to Nigeria's border management capabilities.
The UNODC Country Representative, Mr. Cheikh Toure, highlighted that the project is designed to help close existing mobility and technology gaps within Nigeria's border management system. He emphasized that this initiative is crucial in promoting safe, orderly, and regular migration. The project is also expected to enhance national security.
The NIS has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the judicious use of the equipment and leveraging the support to further enhance Nigeria's Border Management system. The Service is dedicated to promoting national security and ensuring that the new equipment is used effectively. This commitment is seen as a significant step towards achieving a more secure and efficient border management system.
The collaboration between NIS, UNODC, and the Government of Italy is a significant example of international cooperation in addressing common security challenges. The project is expected to have a lasting impact on Nigeria's border management capabilities and contribute to regional security. Key aspects of the project include enhancing operational capacity, improving mobility and surveillance, and promoting safe migration.
Key points
- The Nigeria Immigration Service is set to receive 30 operational vehicles and 60 computers to enhance border surveillance and control.
- The 18-month project is a collaboration between NIS, UNODC, and the Government of Italy.
- The initiative aims to improve Nigeria's border management system, national security, and promote safe, orderly, and regular migration.
