…Nigeria, France strengthen global migration partnership
By Dele Ogbodo
The Federal Government through the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has stated that government is streamlining the Nigerian visa application process on the basis of reciprocity, with priority on automation and a seamless access to INTERPOL data.
This is with the view to strengthen border control and security measures.
He made the disclosure during a courtesy visit by the French Government led by the Ambassador in charge of Migration at the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Mr. Christophe Léonzi, stressed Nigeria’s commitment to curbing illegal migration while fostering cooperation with global partners.
The Nigerian government, he averred is taking proactive steps to prevent illegal migration, by deploying cutting-edge technology to monitor and manage its land, maritime, and air borders.
While acknowledging progress made since President Bola Tinubu assumed office on May 29th, the Minister noted: “Yes, we are not where we want to be, but of course, we are not where we don’t want to be or used to be.
Since May 29th when President Tinubu came on board, there has been a visible difference in terms of the security situation”.
Earlier before the engagement with the French delegation, the Minister had a closed meeting with the technical committee on the enhancement of security in the North led by Major General A.T. Jibrin (rtd).
The Nigerian government is taking proactive steps to prevent illegal migration, by deploying cutting-edge technology to monitor and manage its land, maritime, and air borders.
He admitted that migration as a natural phenomenon, Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasised the government’s stance against illegal migration, expressing Nigeria’s willingness to support bilateral efforts to combat this challenge.
“An African problem is more of a European problem than an American or Asian problem because of our proximity.
“It is easier for people to find their way to Spain, France, Italy or the United Kingdom than to get into America or China. So, it means that the more we invest our energy and efforts into proactive strategies, the better it is for us,” the Minister said.
He highlighted the dynamic nature of illegal migration, stressing the need for continuous dialogue and proactive measures to stay ahead of traffickers’ evolving tactics.
On its part, the French Government led by the Ambassador in charge of Migration at the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, said the purpose of the visit was to foster cooperation between both countries.
The Permanent Secretary, Dr. Aishetu Gogo Ndayako, Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Kemi Nana Nandap, and other high-ranking officials of the Ministry were present at both meetings.
