The Federal Government has announced significant strides in border security and travel facilitation through a strengthened partnership between the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
The announcement was made during a high-level meeting on the Implementation and Enforcement of Immigration Protocols held at the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development in Abuja.
Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, commended the Aviation Ministry for its unwavering support, especially in deploying the Advanced Passenger Information System (APIS). He credited the system with bolstering border control, leading to the interception and handover of several individuals flagged on INTERPOL’s red notice list — a feat made possible through the collaboration between both ministries.
“This achievement in our national security framework reflects our shared vision under Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” Dr. Tunji-Ojo said. “The Ministry of Aviation has been more than a partner — it has been a pillar of support.”
The Minister hailed the occasion as a milestone in inter-agency cooperation, emphasizing the government’s focus on unity across ministries with shared mandates. Building on APIS, he revealed that the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has facilitated the installation of e-gates at major airports, including those in Lagos and Abuja. These gates are now operational and are improving passenger screening and efficiency.
In a further development, the Minister announced the introduction of a digital landing and exit card system and an automated e-visa platform, marking a shift from outdated paper-based procedures. Travelers will now complete their digital entry cards online before departure to Nigeria — a process coordinated with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
“This isn’t just about convenience. It’s about securing our borders while maintaining our culture of hospitality,” said Dr. Tunji-Ojo. “With over 230 million people, Nigeria must lead in tech-driven governance.”
He explained that the new e-visa system will allow for seamless visa applications backed by real-time background checks integrated with global databases like INTERPOL. The platform aims to eliminate third-party interference and reduce bureaucracy, ensuring transparency and speed for travelers.
To support implementation, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and NCAA will form a joint technical team to develop protocols and oversee rollout. Notably, the digital landing and exit cards will be provided free of charge for all foreign travelers and used strictly for national security and data management.
“This partnership is a model of good governance — ministries working together, not in silos, but in harmony to protect our sovereignty and welcome the world,” the Interior Minister affirmed.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Barr. Festus Keyamo, also expressed his commitment to the initiative, stating that both ministries have held multiple strategy meetings behind the scenes to resolve longstanding bureaucratic issues.
“This is the first time our collaboration is being formally unveiled,” Keyamo noted. “We’re all aligned, and every agency involved is dedicated to ensuring the success of this vital program.”
The introduction of the e-visa system, officials say, is expected to boost tourism and business, while strengthening border control and enhancing the traveler experience
