In a significant move signaling continuity in leadership and ongoing reforms within Nigeria’s immigration sector, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the extension of Kemi Nanna Nandap’s tenure as the Comptroller-General (CG) of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) until December 31, 2026. This decision reflects the administration’s confidence in Nandap’s leadership, especially given the ongoing modernization efforts within the NIS and the growing importance of immigration reforms in national security and border management.
The reappointment of Nandap as CG is a testament to her leadership and the success of various initiatives under her stewardship since her appointment in 2021. As CG, Nandap has been a driving force behind modernizing the Nigeria Immigration Service, improving the efficiency of immigration processes, and enhancing the overall security framework of Nigeria’s borders. Her tenure has been marked by a focus on digital transformation, personnel welfare, and international cooperation.
The extension of Nandap’s tenure ensures the continuation of these critical reforms and provides stability within the NIS, which plays a crucial role in national security. This move also underscores the administration’s commitment to ensuring the continued success and professionalism of one of the most essential sectors of government.
Since taking office, Nandap has overseen numerous reforms aimed at streamlining immigration processes and strengthening border security. Under her leadership, the NIS has successfully implemented a digital passport system, a move that has greatly reduced processing times for passports and enhanced security against fraudulent travel documents. The introduction of the National e-Passport system has been hailed as a significant achievement, offering a more efficient and secure way of handling passport issuance for Nigerians.
Additionally, Nandap has spearheaded efforts to modernize border control infrastructure, focusing on the use of technology to monitor and manage migration more effectively. These measures have been vital in combating illegal immigration, human trafficking, and transnational criminal activity, particularly in the wake of growing security challenges in the West African region.
Nandap has also focused on improving the welfare of NIS personnel, ensuring that officers are equipped with the necessary skills and resources to perform their duties effectively. This includes a focus on training, providing modern tools and equipment, and ensuring that staff are motivated to carry out their roles in line with the evolving demands of immigration management.
As the tenure of Nandap extends into 2026, her leadership will be critical in addressing several key challenges facing Nigeria’s immigration system. These challenges include ongoing security threats along Nigeria’s borders, the need for greater collaboration with international partners on migration issues, and the management of increasing migration flows both into and out of Nigeria.
The issue of irregular migration and the effective management of asylum seekers and refugees will likely remain a central concern for the Nigeria Immigration Service. As Africa’s most populous country and a key player in regional politics, Nigeria must continue to balance national security with humanitarian obligations.
Moreover, with the global rise in migration and the growing reliance on technological solutions, Nandap’s leadership will also be key in navigating the digital transformation of immigration systems worldwide. Ensuring that Nigeria’s immigration services remain on par with international standards will require sustained investment in technology, staff development, and infrastructure.
The decision to extend Nandap’s tenure has been met with widespread approval from various stakeholders within the immigration sector. Experts in the field have praised Nandap’s approach to modernizing the NIS, particularly her focus on digital transformation and improving border security.
“The extension of Nandap’s tenure is a positive development for the Nigeria Immigration Service,” said Dr. Chinedu Okoro, a migration policy expert. “She has shown a clear vision for the future of immigration management in Nigeria, and this continuity will help ensure that the NIS can tackle both emerging challenges and ongoing priorities in the sector.”
However, some critics argue that long tenures in leadership positions may limit the infusion of new ideas and innovation. They stress the importance of ensuring that the NIS remains dynamic and responsive to changes in migration patterns and international policies.
“While Nandap has made impressive strides, there needs to be a balance between continuity and the introduction of fresh perspectives,” said Adebayo Aluko, a public policy expert. “Leadership renewal is essential to keep the immigration sector adaptable to new challenges and opportunities in the global context.”
Looking ahead, Nandap’s tenure extension will be pivotal in ensuring that the NIS continues to evolve in response to the changing dynamics of global migration. Her leadership will be tested as she navigates the complexities of balancing security concerns with the facilitation of legitimate migration, as well as ensuring that Nigeria’s immigration policies are aligned with international best practices.
With the continued focus on modernizing the immigration process, strengthening border security, and improving the welfare of NIS personnel, the next few years under Nandap’s leadership will be crucial for Nigeria’s immigration management and national security.
Ultimately, the decision to extend Kemi Nanna Nandap’s tenure reflects the administration’s commitment to a professional, efficient, and secure immigration service, ensuring that Nigeria remains equipped to manage both the challenges and opportunities posed by global migration.
