Nigeria’s democratic journey is too important to be derailed by sensationalism or trial‑by‑headline.

Since assuming office, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji‑Ojo has led the Ministry of Interior with a disciplined focus on reform, streamlining passport administration, modernising border management, improving correctional services, and strengthening professionalism across our paramilitary agencies.

These outcomes are measurable, widely acknowledged, and demonstrably in the national interest.

Transforming Immigration Services

One of the most visible achievements under Tunji‑Ojo’s stewardship has been the transformation of immigration services. For years, Nigerians at home and abroad endured long delays and frustrations in obtaining passports.

The Minister’s team tackled these challenges head‑on, clearing historic backlogs and introducing a centralised personalisation hub that dramatically increased throughput.

Official briefings confirm that capacity now enables thousands of passports to be produced within hours, supported by end‑to‑end digital workflows and enhanced identity security.

These reforms are not abstract. They translate directly into improved service delivery for citizens and diaspora communities. Nigerians travelling for education, business, or family reasons now experience a system that is faster, more predictable, and more secure. This is the essence of governance: solving real problems with practical, sustainable solutions.

Modernising Border Management

At Nigeria’s ports of entry, Tunji‑Ojo has overseen the deployment of automated e‑gates and contactless processes at major airports.

These innovations reduce friction for legitimate travellers while strengthening control frameworks against irregular migration and security threats. In parallel, visa processing has been consolidated, with electronic visas accelerated to reduce delays and improve predictability for business and family travel.

These are not cosmetic upgrades. They represent institutional changes that raise standards, enhance data integrity, and build public confidence.

In a globalised economy, where mobility is central to trade and investment, such reforms are indispensable for Nigeria’s competitiveness.

People‑Centred Reforms

Beyond technology, Tunji‑Ojo has prioritised the welfare and professional development of officers across correctional, immigration, civil defence, and fire services.

Long‑delayed promotions have been unlocked, training reinforced, and modern facilities invested in. Within correctional services, the Ministry mobilised private and philanthropic support to settle fines for thousands of low‑risk inmates, thereby decongesting facilities while advancing rehabilitation and dignity.

This humane, restorative vision of justice is consistent with constitutional values and practical common sense. It signals a shift from punitive overcrowding to rehabilitation and reintegration, aligning Nigeria’s correctional system with global best practice.

Recognition Beyond Government Messaging

Independent media assessments and civil society commentary have repeatedly described the Ministry’s transformation under Tunji‑Ojo as tangible, data‑driven, and unusually rapid by historical standards.

Whether framed as a “digital‑first” shift or a decisive break from fragmented systems, the central point endures: performance has improved, and institutional capacity has grown.

Such recognition matters. It demonstrates that reforms are not merely rhetorical but verifiable, and that citizens are experiencing the benefits in real time.

Indeed, it affirms that governance, when anchored on competence and transparency, tangibly improves lives, strengthens institutions, and inspires renewed public confidence.

Allegations and Due Process

Recent publications have recycled claims about academic timelines and National Youth Service Corps documentation. These stories, amplified in the media ecosystem, urge investigation; yet they risk turning legitimate questions into trial‑by‑headline without due process.

Civil society voices have warned that unverified accusations, when broadcast without institutional verification, erode public trust not only in office‑holders but in the constitutional bodies mandated to vet and confirm them.

Respected advocates have condemned the circulation of unsubstantiated reports, underscoring that Tunji‑Ojo underwent rigorous screening before assumption of office, involving the Department of State Services and the National Assembly’s confirmation processes.

Their position is simple: allegations must be pursued through lawful channels and evidence‑based procedures, not weaponised via sensational narratives.

Furthermore, reportage has documented clarifications from the National Youth Service Corps in response to formal Freedom of Information requests, outlining the Minister’s remobilisation and eventual issuance of a discharge certificate in 2023 following a printing oversight. These details, while technical, matter for accuracy. Where discrepancies exist, institutions should elucidate them; where explanations are provided, public debate should reflect them fairly.

Anchoring Judgement on Evidence

As scholars and practitioners of governance, our judgments must rest on the totality of evidence. Performance metrics in immigration throughput, border automation, correctional decongestion, and service welfare are not abstractions; they translate into everyday benefits for citizens and into stronger national systems.

The Ministry’s sectoral review has articulated a coherent programme, centralised passport personalisation, command‑and‑control data centres, expedited e‑visa frameworks, and structured recruitment, to sustain reforms over the medium term.

Continuity is essential to consolidate gains and prevent regression. Disrupting effective programmes based on unverified claims would punish citizens who are finally experiencing responsive service delivery.

Ethical Foundations and Recognition

Equally important are the ethical foundations of reform. Public fora have emphasised unity, institutional renewal, and youth empowerment as cornerstones of a resilient national spirit. Awards and citations from respected universities and professional bodies affirm not merely personality but the substance of public service—linking innovation to improved governance outcomes.

Recognition does not replace accountability; rather, it corroborates impact while reminding us to keep standards high. Nigerians deserve both integrity and competence. The constitutional architecture provides mechanisms to scrutinise credentials and conduct. Those mechanisms should be utilised rigorously and fairly, without prejudice or media absolutism.

The Case for Continuity

Accordingly, in the interest of national progress, Olubunmi Tunji‑Ojo should be supported to continue his exemplary work.

This is not a plea for indulgence; it is a call for principled governance that prizes results, upholds due process, and protects institutional integrity. Investigations, where necessary, should proceed within the law. Reforms, where proven, should be strengthened. The ultimate test of leadership is the intersection of transparent conduct and transformative outcomes, a test the current trajectory continues to meet.

As citizens and stakeholders, we must demand evidence, fairness, and continuity. We must also recognise that modernising vital services, passports, visas, border controls, correctional rehabilitation, requires sustained effort and shielded policy space.

The Ministry of Interior’s strategic reforms have begun to deliver precisely these dividends. Empowering the Minister to consolidate and deepen this work is, in practical terms, a vote for better institutions and a more confident nation.

In the digital age, where efficiency, transparency, and innovation define progress, his stewardship represents the kind of forward‑looking leadership Nigeria urgently needs. By embedding technology into governance, he has demonstrated that competence is not only about solving today’s problems but also about preparing institutions for tomorrow’s challenges. Supporting him is therefore an endorsement of a modern Nigeria, resilient in its systems and confident in its future.

Conclusion

Nigeria’s democratic journey will be strengthened not by sensationalism but by the steady labour of reform. In that spirit, we should judge leaders by verifiable impact, insist on lawful resolution of disputes, and guard the credibility of our institutions. On those metrics, Olubunmi Tunji‑Ojo’s stewardship merits support to continue, firmly, transparently, and in the interest of national progress.

The nation must resist the temptation of trial‑by‑media and instead embrace the discipline of evidence‑based governance.

Competence, integrity, and continuity are not mutually exclusive; they are the pillars of sustainable reform. Tunji‑Ojo’s record demonstrates that when leadership is anchored on results, Nigeria moves closer to the promise of responsive institutions and a confident future.

Techeconomy gathered that the new data centre will be launched before 29 May 2024.

A petabyte (PB) is a unit of measurement for digital data storage that is equal to one quadrillion bytes, or 1,000 terabytes. It is 1,000 times larger than a terabyte and one million times larger than a gigabyte.

Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, made this announcement during a meeting with the delegation of the National Union of Nigerian Associations in Italy (NUNAI) led by Rowland Ndukuba, president, at his office in Abuja, yesterday.

The data centre will house a comprehensive range of critical national information, including citizens’ bio-data. National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) is in-charge of citizens’ bio-data management.

Emphasising the importance of embracing technology and innovation, the Minister stressed that modern challenges require novel, cutting-edge technological solutions.

He added that integrating advanced technology would enhance efficiency and accountability across national operations.

NIMC Targets to Hit 200 million NIN Enrolments by 2025

In response, Chief Ndukuba expressed gratitude for the Ministry’s efforts in addressing the challenges faced by Nigerians in Italy.

He urged the Minister and the Ministry to continue collaborative efforts to assist stranded Nigerians in Italy.

According to a report titled “Africa Data Center Construction Market – Industry Outlook & Forecast 2023-2028” indicates that South Africa contributes over 50% of the continent’s capacity, with Nigeria coming second and Kenya coming third.

The African data centre construction market, has seen incremental growth in recent years as major international players have invested in the deployment of new submarine cables for broadband connectivity.

These include the Africa-1, 2Africa, India Europe Xpress (IEX), Equiano, and Medusa Submarine Cable System SeaMeWe – 6.

Recall that in 2022, Google brought the Equiano mega subsea cable to Lagos, Nigeria, a month after its first African landing in Togo with support from some partners: the West Indian Ocean Cable Company (WIOCC) and an investor (the Eastern African Submarine System (EASSy) submarine cable).

So far, the growth of Nigeria’s data centre market is traceable to its recent focus on digitisation and the incorporation of emerging technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT), big data, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and advanced network connectivity services.

As of November 2023, there are over 11 data centres in Nigeria. These are located largely in Lagos, then Abuja and Kano.

These include the Open Access Data Centre (OADC) by WIOCC Group Company, Rack Centre, MDXi (MainOne, an Equinix Company), Medallion (Digital Reality), 21st Century; Africa Data Centres, MTN, CEWA, Galaxy BackBone and mobile, among others.

Recall that the Republic of the Congo, yesterday, unveiled a yet-to-be-completed three-story building in Brazzaville’s Bacongo district of the Congolese capital, which will house the country’s National Data Centre.

Financed by the African Development Bank, the data centre will be used to store and process the country’s digital data and its citizens.

According to a statement shared with Journalists, the project will include the construction of 600 kilometres of fibre optic cable on the major interconnecting routes with Cameroon (341 km) and the Central African Republic (281 km) via the Congo River.

The Congo National Data Centre is under construction as of early May 2024. The fibre project will cost a total of €66.55 million ($72 million).

Of this sum, a total of €52.47 million ($56 million) will be contributed by the African Development Bank and the balance of €14.50 million ($15 million) by the government of Congo. Of the total, a sum of €13.8 million ($14.6 million) has been allocated to build and run the data centre.

The three-storey building will have server rooms, monitoring and supervision rooms, and meeting and conference rooms, as well as locations for the energy and air-conditioning equipment the centre needs to function correctly, which should be delivered by December 2024

Once finished, the data centre will be managed through public or private partnership who will be responsible for marketing and infrastructure maintenance.

The Minister announces this on Friday through his verified X handle, during an inspection of work at the airport.

In February this year, the Interior Minister, had revealed plans by the Federal Government to install biometrics clearance gates (e-Gates) for the Nigeria immigration service at the international airports. It was at 70% ready then.

“Today (Friday April 19, 2024), I inspected the ongoing installation of electronic gates (e-Gates) at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, which is about 90% to completion.

“This advanced border management system, which will be installed in our other international airports including Lagos, Kano, Enugu, and Port Harcourt airports, further reaffirms our commitment to giving Nigerians a sweet experience.

“The #RenewedHope government of President @officialABAT (GCFR) will continue to invest into the enhancement of national security through the deployment of technology in line with global best practices”.

According to him, it is expected to be ready at these airports by March 2024.

Olubunmi, who spoke during the inspection visit to the Abuja international airport yesterday, said that Lagos would get 17 gates, Abuja, 10; Port Harcourt and Kano would get five each, and Enugu would get four.

He added that the facilities would be a game changer for effective and efficient management of international passengers in the country.

He noted that the international airports in Nigeria where the facilities will be installed are the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Port Harcourt International Airport, and Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu.

When put to use, the gates would provide seamless clearance services for passengers entering the country through any of the international airports.

Tunji-Ojo said,

“I am impressed by the levels and pace of work I have seen here today. The facilities are about 70 per cent ready. This means our border control management system is on track. It also means that the Nigeria Immigration Service is ready to contribute its quota to the National Security Architecture.

“The efficiency of the services provided by the NIS determines whatever we see in our security outlook as a nation. All these are being done in line with global best practices and standards and in consonance with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu to provide quality services to Nigerians.

“We have decided that the more the gates at the airports, the easier it would be for passengers to be cleared. And looking at the ones that have been tested, it takes about 30 seconds for a passenger to clear, so I look at the solutions and the hardware, and I think they are top-notch.

“Once you check in you don’t need to have an encounter with Immigration officers anymore except you are a person of interest. This facility is not just for you to pass at record time, no. It is also to secure the nation and add another layer to our National Security Architecture.

“If a person is a person of interest, he can easily be flagged. And this gives our Immigration support to be able to effectively do their jobs.”

The development is expected to end incessant delays experienced by passengers at the nation’s airports.

The newly launched system is designed to simplify and expedite the entire application process, providing a seamless experience for Nigerian citizens who are in need of a passport. 

The initiative aims to eliminate the long-standing challenges of the traditional application process by leveraging advanced technology and automation.

With the new system in place, applicants can expect a faster and more efficient way of applying for a passport, which in turn will help to reduce the time and effort required to obtain one.

This initiative aims to simplify and expedite the passport application process, providing a seamless experience for Nigerian citizens.

Enrolling for Your Passport in 5 Simple Steps:

Step 1: Access the Official Website

To initiate the passport application process, applicants are required to visit the official website. Here, users are prompted to fill in their National Identification Number (NIN) to enable automatic data retrieval from the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). 

This step ensures accuracy in information and also enhances the overall efficiency of the application process.

Step 2: Complete Necessary Data Fields

After the automatic data retrieval, applicants proceed to complete other essential data fields as required by the system. This step ensures that all pertinent information is accurately captured, contributing to the overall integrity of the passport application.

Step 3: Upload Passport Photograph and Supporting Documents

Applicants are then prompted to upload their passport photograph, adhering to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards. 

Additionally, other supporting documents relevant to the application must be submitted at this stage. 

This meticulous documentation is important for the verification process and ensures the legitimacy of the passport application.

Step 4: Biometric Capture at Immigration Office

To enhance security measures, applicants are required to physically visit an Immigration Office for biometric capture. This step involves the collection of fingerprints and other biometric data, adding an extra layer of authentication to the passport application process. This physical presence requirement contributes to the overall security and credibility of the passport issuance.

Step 5: Passport Ready for Collection

Once the biometric capture is complete, applicants can expect their passports to be ready for collection within a swift timeframe of two weeks. This streamlined processing time is a notable improvement, ensuring that citizens receive their passports promptly and efficiently.

The Minister disclosed this during a demonstration session of the online portal on Friday with Caroline Adepoju, the comptroller general, Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).

According to him, an online passport application platform has been established for both international and Nigerian applicants.

Tunji-Ojo had announced in December that the Federal Government was working to ensure a full automation system of passport application in the country.

At the time, the minister said the automated application system was “99 per cent done,” adding that the process would include uploading passport photos and supporting documents.

He stated that Nigerian applicants who want 32-page passports with five-year validity would pay N25,000, while those who want 64-page passports with a 10-year validity would pay N70,000.

Meanwhile, foreign applicants, who wish to apply for passports with a five-year validity period and 32 pages, will pay $130, while those who prefer passports with a 10-year validity period and 64 pages will pay $230. Candidates must submit their applications at the portal here. (Punch)

The minister had announced in December that the Federal Government was working to ensure a full automation system of passport application in the country.

At the time, the minister said the automated application system was “99% done,” adding that the process would include uploading passport photos and supporting documents.

Meanwhile, Ojo while inspecting facilities of the Nigeria Immigration Service in Abuja, alongside the Comptroller General of the Service, Wura-Ola Adepoju, on Monday, confirmed that Nigerians will be able to apply and complete their passport application process online without human contact.

The minister said that the ministry has commenced the training process that will lead to the live launching of the automation.

He said,

“We are good to go live.  We are starting the training and on January 8, the solution will be live and direct for Nigerians to have a good feel, a sweet experience based on the Renewed Hope of Mr President.

“We have been able to reduce human contact in passport acquisition to the minimum.”

He added that the initiative will improve the security architecture of the country, prompting a quick detection of fake passport applications and reducing bottlenecks. (Punch)

[Featured Image Credit]

The requirement is contained in new guidelines by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), for date of birth change it released at the weekend via its X handle.

https://twitter.com/nimc_ng/status/1738834321165656202

According to the Commission, in addition to the certificate, NIMC said copies of other valid documents such as identification and application letter for modification will now be addressed to the Director General of NIMC.

Previously, only affidavits and the payment of N15, 000 were required for the modification of age and other modifications on the NIN system.

NIMC explained that with the new guidelines, date of birth modification could only be done once in a lifetime and only at NIMC enrolment centres.

It warned that its licensed agents are not allowed to do date of birth modification and other forms of modification.

In a statement signed by Abisoye Coker-Odusote, the director-general/chief executive officer, the commission said, “This is to inform you of an important regulatory update regarding the revalidation of your license as a Front-End Partner of NIMC.”

NIMC stressed that the revalidation process was mandatory for all current partners and it is intended to ensure compliance with the latest standards and protocols. It noted that the revalidation process will include a thorough review of the third-party organisation’s operations, technical infrastructure, and compliance with NIMC’s policies and guidelines.

Among others, key details of the revalidation process documentation, include that “You are required to submit the following documents for revalidation: Current Business Registration Certificate. Updated Company Profile, Copy of the signed Memorandum of Understanding. Evidence of fees paid to acquire a license. Tax Clearance Certificate for the past three years. Evidence of compliance with NIMC’s technical specifications.

“Provide proof of training and capacity building for your staff involved in the identity enrolment process. Total NIN registered. LLC’s should provide the list of sub-licensees registered under them.”

Meanwhile, the NIMC has budgeted N9.57 billion for construction purposes in 2024. This is contained in the 2024 Appropriation Bill.

The NIMC, which was formerly under the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, was moved in September to the Ministry of Interior, headed by Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

But last week, the FG moved the commission to the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

There however, are no clarifications yet on the forms of constructions expected to gulp the N9.57 billion and this may raise dust in some quarters.

The 3-day event brought together esteemed leaders and entrepreneurs, to forge strategic collaborations for growth. Honourable (Dr.) Abike Dabiri-Erewa, CEO NiDCOM, hosted the event, highlighting the pivotal role of the diaspora in Nigeria’s national development.

Distinguished guests in attendance included the Minister of Finance/Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun and the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. The Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, and the Minister of the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, also attended the summit, further enriching the discourse with their perspectives on the intersection of diaspora investment and various sectors crucial to national development.

Coronation Group Limited, Africa’s investment management powerhouse, proudly sponsored the event, as part of a broader collaboration to democratise access to financial solutions for Nigerians living in the diaspora. The Coronation Group unveiled a portal on the NiDCOM website, designed to provide a safe and convenient avenue for diaspora members to access financial solutions.

Funke Feyisitan-Ladimeji, representing Coronation Group Limited said: “The Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit underscores the significant role the diaspora community plays in shaping our nation’s economic landscape. At Coronation Group, our participation reflects our shared goal of financial independence and wealth creation for Nigerians everywhere. Through our partnership with NiDCOM, we will provide Nigerians in diaspora with technology-enabled platforms to enable seamless and secure access to superior financial services. We will also provide free access to a robust financial literacy and education program, to ensure the community is empowered to make savvy investment decisions. Overall, we aim to create an environment where financial security and prosperity are not just aspirations, but attainable realities for every member of the Nigerian diaspora community.”

A key feature of the summit was the pitch session, where over 20 passionate owners of start-ups presented their innovative business ideas to potential investors. The businesses span diverse sectors such as manufacturing, finance, fintech, education, and professional services. This platform provided a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs to present their ventures to a discerning audience, fostering collaboration and investment.

The 6th Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit promises to be a pivotal moment in harnessing the expertise and resources of the diaspora community for the benefit of Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape. As the summit progresses, attendees can expect engaging discussions, strategic partnerships, and the exploration of opportunities that align with the summit’s theme.