Immigration Comptroller- General launches migration policy drive

By Maxwell Kumoye

The Nigeria Immigration Service has intensified efforts to strengthen migration governance as its Comptroller-General, Kemi Nanna Nandap, officially flagged off a two-day sensitization workshop on the National Migration Policy in Enugu.

Held at the Enugu State Command headquarters, the workshop, part of a nationwide campaign, marks a key step toward the implementation of Nigeria’s validated National Migration Policy (2025).

Represented by the Comptroller of Immigration Service, Enugu State Command, Nkechi Enete, the Comptroller-General described the initiative as vital to aligning officers with the country’s evolving migration framework.

In her address, Nandap underscored the strategic role of the Service in shaping migration governance and driving policy reforms aimed at enhancing national security.

She noted that the Service has continued to deploy innovative solutions to modernise its operations, citing initiatives such as:
• The e-Visa regime
• Contactless Passport Application System
• E-Border infrastructure Passport Personalisation Centre
• The ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card as critical milestones

According to her, these reforms have not only strengthened border management systems but have also reinforced Nigeria’s migration policy architecture, positioning migration as a key driver of national development and international cooperation.

Nandap further highlighted the growing complexity of global migration trends, warning that issues such as human trafficking, migrant smuggling, and transnational crimes demand a more coordinated and proactive response.

She described Nigeria’s borders as both a frontline defence against security threats and an essential gateway for legitimate economic activities, including trade, investment, and tourism.

The Comptroller-General therefore called for stronger inter-agency collaboration, stressing that effective migration management requires a delicate balance between security enforcement and facilitation of lawful movement.

She urged participants to take full advantage of the workshop, noting that the success of the National Migration Policy hinges on the professionalism, commitment, and adaptability of officers across commands nationwide.

The workshop also featured technical sessions led by resource persons from the Service headquarters in Abuja, including Assistant Superintendent of Immigration Benson Benson Mfonobong and Assistant Superintendent of Immigration Godiya Tanko, who provided insights into policy implementation and operational best practices.

The sensitization programme is expected to deepen officers’ understanding of the policy framework and enhance service delivery as the Service moves to fully implement the National Migration Policy across the country.