The Comptroller General, Nigeria Immigration Service, Kemi Nandap, has announced plans to inaugurate a more accessible e-visa application channel for short visits in line with the Nigeria Visa Policy 2020.

Mrs Nandap said this in her address delivered at the graduation of the 12th command course of the Immigration Command and Staff College, in Sokoto State.

A statement by the Service Public Relations Officer, Kenneth Udo, on Tuesday in Abuja, indicated that the CG was represented by Assistant Comptroller General, George Didel.

The CG said that the new channel was designed to streamline visa processes, adding that it was to also foster Foreign Direct Investments and boost tourism.

She said, “We must embrace these reforms and implement effective internal control and monitoring mechanisms. This is to track the presence and activities of all foreigners in Nigeria.’’

The CG reiterated her commitment towards the full implementation of the e-border project.

This, she said included the installation of e-gates at international airports in Lagos and Abuja, and the integration of the Advance Passenger Information System.

She stated, “As well as Passenger Name Record to enhance border control and clearance systems. These centres are expected to significantly improve intelligence sharing and operational coordination to enhance national security.’’

Mrs Nandap emphasised the need to revitalise NIS’s divisional offices and called for improved participation in Security Council meetings.

This, she said, would be at state and local government levels, as well as other ad-hoc duties with utmost professionalism and interagency collaboration.

Mrs Nandap charged formation heads to work assiduously towards ensuring the success of the automation of passport application processes intended to reduce human interface, curtail sharp practices, and enhance efficiency.

She said that the ongoing rollout of enhanced e-passports would continue both locally and at the foreign missions until full transition was achieved.

The CG urged NIS formations to participate actively in the nationwide sensitisation campaign against irregular migration, especially smuggling of migrants.

She, however, reiterated NIS commitment to capacity building for service cadres, stressing the importance of engaging partners and stakeholders in sustaining training and capacity-building programs.

She pledged to improve the welfare of NIS officers through timely promotions, affordable housing, and health care schemes.

Mrs Nandap urged the course participants to be agents of transformation and to uphold the highest standards of professionalism.

The highlight of the event was the award of the “Passed Command Course” and to participants, while directing staff received the “Dagger Merit Award (+),” in recognition of their dedication and hard work.

(NAN)