The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) announced on Thursday that it is preparing to launch an electronic visa (e-Visa) system aimed at improving efficiency and reducing corruption.
The Comptroller General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap, made this known while opening the 3rd Nationwide Sensitization Campaign on Efficient Service Delivery and Zero Tolerance for Corruption at the Service’s headquarters in Abuja.
According to Nandap, the e-Visa will streamline the visa application process, making it more convenient for travelers. She emphasized that the online system will eliminate human contact during applications, thereby reducing the risk of corruption.
The event was themed “Increased Digitalization and Consolidated Innovations for Efficient and Transparent Services.”
She stated that the anti-corruption campaign would also be extended to all Commands and Formations of the Service.
Highlighting the measures implemented to combat systemic corruption, the Comptroller General noted that the recent automation of most processes within the Service has significantly reduced human contact, thereby lowering the chances of corrupt practices.
Nandap encouraged the public to hold the Service accountable and welcomed constructive feedback. She also emphasized the importance of recognizing and commending personnel when they perform well.
She further underscored the vital role of the NIS in national security, border management, and the facilitation of regular migration, stressing that the Service’s actions have a significant impact on Nigeria’s global image.
Speaking on the Service’s anti-corruption initiatives, Nandap stated, “Last year, we made a firm commitment to combat corruption in all its forms. In line with this, we intensified digitalization efforts and introduced innovative solutions to enhance service delivery and eliminate corruption within the Service.”
She highlighted the Passport Automation Programme as one of the Service’s key initiatives. This innovation has significantly reduced passport processing time, making it easier and more convenient for Nigerians to obtain their travel documents.
Beyond improving efficiency, Nandap noted that automation has also eliminated opportunities for corruption that previously thrived under the manual system due to excessive human interaction.
Another key aspect of our anti-corruption strategy is the Contactless Passport Application Process. This innovation allows Nigerians to submit their applications online, eliminating the need for physical interaction with immigration officers. By doing so, it not only enhances efficiency but also removes opportunities for corrupt practices.
The introduction of e-gates in Nigeria marks a major advancement in security and travel efficiency. These automated gates streamline airport procedures, ensuring faster and more secure passenger processing while reducing manual intervention, thereby minimizing the risk of corruption.
Additionally, the deployment of body cameras by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) represents a crucial step toward improving transparency and accountability in its operations. These cameras help prevent misconduct, enhance evidence collection, and improve documentation. They also serve as vital tools in criminal investigations, providing firsthand evidence for legal proceedings and reinforcing public trust in the Service.
Our partnership with Interpol is a vital component of our anti-corruption efforts. By collaborating with international law enforcement agencies, we can share intelligence, best practices, and expertise to combat corruption and other transnational crimes.
I am also proud to announce that among the only five Interpol trainers recently certified for Nigeria, one is an officer of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS). This achievement further strengthens our commitment to eliminating corruption within the system.
Similarly, in collaboration with national anti-corruption agencies such as SERVICOM, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), we are reinforcing internal mechanisms to ensure our officers uphold the principles of professionalism, integrity, and service ethics.
Officers found violating ethical standards will face the full weight of the law,” she added.
