The Federal Government has announced major advancements in national border security and travel facilitation through a strategic partnership between the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development. The collaboration is to significantly strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to manage its borders, identify high-risk individuals, and streamline entry for legitimate travelers.

The announcement was made at the meeting on Implementation and Enforcement of Immigration Protocols that took place at the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development in Abuja. The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo expressed deep appreciation for the Ministry of Aviation’s consistent support, particularly in the deployment and implementation of the Advanced Passenger Information System (APIS).

He said this cutting-edge technology has played a  role in improving border control which has  resulted in numerous individuals on INTERPOL's red notice list being intercepted and handed over to international authorities at Nigerian entry points, an achievement credited to the joint efforts of both ministries. Speaking at a joint press briefing, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo emphasized the significance of the occasion as a milestone in inter-ministerial collaboration. 

The Minister said building on the success of APIS, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) supported the installation of e-gates at major airports including Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. These e-gates are now operational, further enhancing the efficiency and security of passenger movement. The Minister said both the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development reaffirmed their shared commitment to ensuring that travelers experience the best of what the country has to offer: safety, innovation, and the unmatched hospitality of the Nigerian people.

On his part, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Barr. Festus Keyamo, reaffirmed his commitment to collaborating with the Ministry of Interior. He acknowledged the long standing synergy between the two ministries, noting that this was the first time such collaboration was being showcased publicly, stating that both ministries have engaged in several closed-door meetings to address long-standing bureaucratic challenges.The formal introduction of the new e-visa system, a streamlined, technology-driven platform is designed to enhance security, promote tourism and business, and simplify entry procedures for visitors to Nigeria.