The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has received new operational equipment to boost its border management capabilities, thanks to a partnership with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the Government of Italy. The equipment, which includes 30 operational vehicles and 60 computers, aims to improve border surveillance, control, and operational effectiveness. This initiative is part of an 18-month project designed to enhance the mobility, technological capacity, and effectiveness of NIS personnel, particularly in remote and high-risk border locations.
The project was officially launched on September 24, 2026, at the United Nations House in Abuja, during a high-level meeting convened by UNODC. The Comptroller General of NIS, Kemi Nanna Nandap, expressed gratitude to the Government of Italy and UNODC for their continued support in strengthening the operational capacity of the Service. The new equipment is expected to enhance NIS's mobility, surveillance capability, and digital infrastructure, ultimately improving overall operational efficiency.
The Ambassador of Italy to Nigeria, H.E. 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. The UNODC Country Representative, Mr. Cheikh Toure, noted that the participation of senior officials and stakeholders at the launch ceremony underscored the significance of the project.
According to DCI Akinsola Akinlabi, the Service Public Relations Officer, the new equipment will be used to boost the mobility and technological capacity of NIS personnel deployed to remote and high-risk border locations. The project aims to address existing mobility and technological gaps within Nigeria's border management system, ultimately enhancing national security and promoting safe, orderly, and regular migration.
The Nigeria Immigration Service has assured that it will judiciously use the equipment and leverage the support to further strengthen Nigeria's border management system. The Service is committed to ensuring that the equipment is used to enhance border security and control, while also promoting effective migration management.
The partnership between NIS, UNODC, and Italy reflects a shared commitment to addressing common security challenges and promoting regional stability. The project is expected to have a positive impact on Nigeria's border management capabilities, ultimately enhancing national security and promoting economic development.
The launch of the project marks a significant milestone in the cooperation between NIS, UNODC, and Italy. The three parties have expressed their commitment to sustaining the partnership and exploring new areas of collaboration to address emerging security challenges.
Key points
- The NIS, UNODC, and Italy have partnered to enhance border management with new equipment, including 30 operational vehicles and 60 computers.
- The 18-month project aims to improve border surveillance, control, and operational effectiveness, particularly in remote and high-risk border locations.
- The partnership reflects a shared commitment to addressing common security challenges and promoting regional stability.
