The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nandap, has reaffirmed her commitment to reinforcing border security and surveillance as a strategic response to the escalating security challenges facing the country. Speaking at a crucial meeting with Comptrollers from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Tuesday, Nandap laid out a clear mandate for robust and effective border control measures aimed at curbing illegal activities such as smuggling and terrorism.
During the session in Abuja, Nandap emphasized the critical importance of a hands-on approach, urging the Comptrollers to prioritize physical presence and ground surveillance as key components in their efforts to secure the nation’s borders. She highlighted that while the NIS has managed to contain certain threats, the current situation demands a more proactive and vigilant stance.
“The reason for this meeting is for us to ensure our borders are safe and secure. Upon assuming duty, I conducted a comprehensive assessment of our borders. It became evident that there are gaps we need to address to enhance our effectiveness,” Nandap stated.
She called on the Comptrollers to lead by example, stressing that the era of remote management is over. Nandap emphasized that understanding the unique challenges at each border post is crucial for developing tailored solutions that address specific threats. “As Comptrollers, it is imperative that you conduct regular surveillance and be physically present to comprehend the challenges faced by your teams,” she added.
One of the key measures introduced by Nandap is the implementation of a standardized reporting template designed to streamline operations and improve border policing. This template is expected to enhance accountability and ensure that the efforts of officers across the 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs) are coordinated effectively.
Nandap also highlighted the importance of understanding the crime patterns in each state, urging the Comptrollers to analyze their regions and develop strategies that align with the specific security issues present. “You must analyze your state and know the crime pattern; only then can you proffer solutions and be relevant to the state government,” she advised.
In her closing remarks, Nandap reiterated the NIS’s responsibility to safeguard Nigeria’s borders and prevent the illegal entry of non-Nigerians, stating that the Service must take its duties seriously to address these pressing security concerns.
This renewed focus on border security comes at a critical time for Nigeria, as the country continues to grapple with complex security challenges.
