Muhammad Bashar, the Emir of Gwandu in Kebbi, has urged the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to intensify surveillance along the Nigerian border with the Niger Republic.

“Given the fact that we are a state bordering Niger Republic, the NIS should intensify surveillance and vigilance in view of the recent coup d’etat that took place in our neighbouring country, Niger Republic,” he said.

The emir advised paper presentations to mark the 60th anniversary of NIS on Thursday in Birnin Kebbi.

Mr Bashar, represented by Siddiku Ibrahim-Saad, the Ubandoman Gwandu, commended the efforts to combat trafficking in persons and illegal immigration in the country.

In her remarks, the comptroller of NIS in the state, Rabi Bashir-Nuhu, said they would continue to discharge their responsibilities effectively and solicited the support of the people, including border communities.

In his submission, Sambo Gwandu, a retired Assistant Comptroller- General of Immigration, called on NIS to review the process of obtaining passports to make it easier for citizens.

“Despite the achievements recorded through the adoption and use of advanced technology in its operation, the service is currently facing challenges in the issuance of improved Nigeria passports.

“Before the new policy, citizens could get Nigeria’s standard passport within 72 hours at most.

“With the adoption of a new policy now, if care is not taken, citizens applying for the passport will take three months or more to obtain a passport or seek for waver – a provision that is not open to an ordinary citizen,” he said.

Mr Gwandu congratulated officers and men of NIS on the anniversary and commended the acting comptroller-general, Adepoju Wuraola, for her contributions to the service.

(NAN)