Federal Government Apprehends 10 on Interpol’s Watch List in a Week, Launches Advanced Immigration Data Complex
The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the arrest of 10 individuals on Interpol’s watch list within just one week, marking a significant milestone in the country’s border security and surveillance efforts.
The disclosure was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during the unveiling of the Technology Innovation Complex at the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) headquarters in Abuja. President Bola Tinubu was present at the event to inaugurate the newly launched Data Complex, which includes the Command and Control Centre for regular migration, the NIS Data Centre, the ECOWAS Biometric Card Production Centre, an Interior Data Centre, and a 0.5KW solar power plant.
New Technology to Enhance Border Security
The minister highlighted the significance of the advanced facility, which is designed to assess the risk levels of individuals entering the country, detect irregular migration patterns, and monitor Nigeria’s unmanned and hard-to-reach borders.
“In the last couple of days, 10 individuals on the Interpol and immigration wanted list were apprehended within a week,” Tunji-Ojo revealed. “Before now, these individuals could have entered Nigeria undetected and caused havoc. But under this new leadership, Nigeria is now a no-go area for any criminal elements.”
Round-the-Clock Surveillance
The facility incorporates cutting-edge technology powered by a fully operational 0.5KW solar power plant, ensuring uninterrupted operation. Additionally, 250 specially trained officers work in eight-hour shifts to maintain 24/7 surveillance across the country’s borders.
“We’ve created an end-to-end solution,” the minister explained. “This includes an energy solution to power the facility, alongside the critical human element. The officers have been trained to ensure effective border governance, providing round-the-clock monitoring and preventing any lapses in security.”
Cost Savings and Operational Efficiency
Tunji-Ojo also emphasized the economic benefits of the facility, noting that it will save the country over ₦300 million annually. “Previously, billions were wasted annually due to inefficiencies in border management. With this state-of-the-art technology, Nigeria can now manage its borders more effectively and save significant resources,” he stated.
Other innovations include the introduction of an automated visa system that allows for visa approvals within 48 hours and improved correctional information management. “For instance, during the Maiduguri floods, security agencies were able to share critical information within three hours, demonstrating the system’s efficiency,” the minister said.
Enhanced Border Governance
The new facility represents a major step forward in Nigeria’s border management capabilities, with over 200 borders now under comprehensive governance. The introduction of the ECOWAS travel document further facilitates seamless movement across the region, supporting both regional integration and national security.
President Tinubu praised the initiative, calling it a testament to his administration’s commitment to leveraging technology for improved governance. The facility, he noted, underscores the government’s resolve to safeguard the nation against criminal elements while fostering regional cooperation.
This development is expected to bolster Nigeria’s security infrastructure, ensuring that its borders remain secure and well-managed in the face of evolving challenges.
