In less than a year since assuming office, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, is already being lauded as a standout performer in President Bola Tinubu’s administration. His leadership, which has garnered widespread admiration, is defined by innovation, efficiency, and focused on effective service delivery. Tunji-Ojo’s transformation of the Ministry of Interior has revitalized key sectors and introduced reforms set to leave a lasting impact.
One of Tunji-Ojo’s most notable achievements is overhauling the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS). Within three weeks of tackling a backlog of over 200,000 passport applications, the minister cleared the issue that had long frustrated Nigerians. His solution-oriented approach culminated in plans to reduce the processing time for passports to just two weeks, with additional home and office delivery options set to begin in 2024. These bold reforms aim to make passport acquisition faster and more convenient for citizens.
The talk-and-do minister Tunji-Ojo has also displayed a proactive stance in international relations by advocating for fairness and reciprocity in visa processes. He has pushed for reforms ensuring that Nigerian citizens are treated fairly in visa applications, just as foreign nationals are granted entry into Nigeria. This balanced approach has helped enhance Nigeria’s global standing and protect the rights of its citizens abroad.
His dedication to the welfare of paramilitary personnel is also noteworthy. Tunji-Ojo initiated plans to establish a functional pension board for paramilitary officers, ensuring their salaries align with those of the Nigeria Police Force. This move aims to boost morale and improve productivity within the ranks of immigration, correctional, and other services.
DON’T MISS THIS: What Are You Doing to Survive in the Nigeria of Tomorrow?
A key part of Tunji-Ojo’s vision is criminal justice reform, particularly in Nigeria’s correctional facilities. His decision to clear fines for over 4,000 inmates, totaling ₦585 million, reflects a compassionate approach to justice. By promoting the rehabilitation of prisoners, rather than punitive measures, Tunji-Ojo is positioning correctional centers as places of hope and redemption.
Tunji-Ojo’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. His rapid and impactful changes to the passport system earned him the 2023 “Public Service Person of the Year” award from Leadership newspaper. Known as a “minister talk and do,” his reform-driven agenda has resonated with millions of Nigerians, restoring faith in the government’s ability to deliver on its promises.
The minister’s vision is expansive, as shown by his efforts to modernize Nigeria’s security infrastructure. The introduction of e-gates at airports and the establishment of a state-of-the-art command and control center for the NIS are just two examples of how Tunji-Ojo is leveraging technology to enhance border security and facilitate seamless international travel.
Fairly Used Gods for Sale, Hurry While Stock Lasts
In a recent demonstration of his commitment to transparency and accountability, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo swiftly addressed allegations of corruption within the Nigerian Correctional Service. After reports surfaced regarding illicit activities, particularly around contract awarding and prison management, the minister wasted no time in initiating a full investigation. His decisive action, ordering immediate probes and suspensions, underscores his zero-tolerance stance on corruption. This rapid response reflects Tunji-Ojo’s practical approach to governance—prioritizing swift, corrective action over lengthy deliberations, ensuring that the integrity of the institutions under his watch remains uncompromised.
With such transformative leadership, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has set a high bar for public service. His drive to bring tangible change to Nigeria’s interior ministry is evidence of his commitment to excellence and innovation. As his reforms continue to take shape, Tunji-Ojo is poised to solidify his reputation as one of the most effective ministers in President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
- Tags: border security, criminal justice reform, e-gates at airports, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Minister of Interior, Nigerian correctional facilities, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, paramilitary officers welfare, passport reforms, President Bola Tinubu administration, public service awards, transformative leadership, visa fairness
