NIS TO UNVEIL USER-FRIENDLY E-VISA CHANNEL

The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nandap, has announced plans to introduce a more accessible e-Visa application platform for short visits, aligning with the Nigeria Visa Policy 2020. Nandap made this announcement during her speech at the graduation ceremony of the 12th Command Course of the Immigration Command and Staff College in Sokoto. According to a statement by the Service Public Relations Officer, Mr. Kenneth Udo, in Abuja, the CG was represented by Assistant Comptroller General (ACG) George Didel. Nandap explained that the new platform aims to simplify visa procedures and facilitate Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) as well as promote tourism. She stressed the importance of embracing these reforms and implementing effective internal control and monitoring mechanisms to track the presence and activities of foreigners in Nigeria. The CG reaffirmed her commitment to the full implementation of the e-Border Project, which includes the installation of e-Gates at international airports in Lagos and Abuja, and the integration of the Advance Passenger Information System (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) to enhance border control and clearance systems. Nandap emphasized the revitalization of NIS’s Divisional Offices and called for improved participation in Security Council Meetings at State and Local Government levels, along with other ad-hoc duties, with a focus on professionalism and interagency collaboration. She urged formation heads to diligently work towards the success of automating Passport application processes, aiming to reduce human interface, eliminate corrupt practices, and enhance efficiency. The ongoing rollout of enhanced e-Passports will continue both locally and at foreign missions until full transition is achieved, Nandap stated. She urged all NIS formations to actively participate in nationwide sensitization campaigns against irregular migration, especially Smuggling of Migrants (SOM). While reiterating NIS’s commitment to capacity building for all Service cadres, she stressed the importance of engaging partners and stakeholders in sustaining training and capacity-building programs. Nandap pledged to improve the welfare of NIS officers through timely promotions, affordable housing, and healthcare schemes. She urged the course participants to be agents of transformation and uphold the highest standards of professionalism. The event’s highlight was the awarding of the “Passed Command Course” (PCC) to all participants, while directing staff received the “Dagger Merit Award (+)” in recognition of their dedication and hard work.