By Ibironke Ariyo
The Comptroller General, Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nandap, on Monday decorated 46 newly promoted comptrollers, charging them to be more vigilant and professional in the face of the nation’s security challenges.
Speaking during the ceremony in Abuja, Nandap reminded the officers that promotion in a disciplined service was neither automatic nor solely a function of years in service.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that of the 46 senior officers promoted from Deputy Comptroller of Immigration (DCI) to Comptroller of Immigration (CI), one passed away before the release of the results, while seven had already retired.
The NIS CG stressed that advancement was earned through sustained dedication, professional competence, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to duty.
Nandap lauded President Bola Tinubu for his visionary leadership and steadfast commitment to institutional reforms and national security.
She said that the ongoing transformation within the service was driven by the administration’s resolve to strengthen security institutions.
She also acknowledged the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for providing strategic direction, diligent oversight, and resolute dedication to strengthening its operational capacities.
The NIS boss said that the presence of stakeholders and wellwishers underscored the collective support that sustained the men and women of the service.
“At this advanced stage of your careers, professional competence must be matched with strong leadership attributes.
“Considering the current security challenges our nation faces, we must remain vigilant and unrelenting in the fight against multifaceted threats.
“Your actions will set the tone, and your conduct will continue to reflect the core values and reputation of this service,” he said.
Nandap reaffirmed that the NIS would not tolerate any form of indolence or unprofessional conduct urging officers to embrace innovation, adapt to emerging challenges, and always place the interest of the service above personal considerations.
She congratulated the newly promoted personnel while acknowledging the sacrifice of their families, saying “their patience, encouragement, and understanding have been instrumental to their professional journey”.
She urged those not promoted to remain steadfast, adding that there is a time for everyone.
Nandap also highlighted ongoing reforms in the service, including upgrades in visa and passport processes, contactless solutions, the newly introduced EMBIC system.
This, she said, included the forthcoming STEP initiative, a biometric-based Single Travel Emergency Passport expected to replace the Emergency Travel Certificate in 2026.
“We cannot afford to take our eyes off the ball. This administration is focused on reforms and transformation, and you are the drivers of these reforms,” he said.
The NIS CG reiterated the service’s commitment to strengthening its operational efficiency as Nigeria prepared for a more reform-driven 2026.
In his remarks, Mr Afolayan Ayeni, Deputy Comptroller General (DCG) in charge of Human Resources Management, recalled that the Minister of Interior had, on assumption of office, prioritised prompt promotion of personnel.
Ayeni described the measure as an effort now yielding results in the ministry. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Yakubu Uba
