Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister for Interior, has pioneered a wave of positive reforms in his ministry. His tenure so far has been marked by significant progress in both passport processing and correctional service reforms.
Timely resolution of over 200,000 passport backlogs
One of the most notable achievements of this ministry is the rapid resolution of a 204,000 backlog of passport applications in just 14 days. This accomplishment is commendable and highlights the government’s dedication to alleviating the frustrations countless Nigerians experience both at home and abroad, when processing their travel document.
The minister’s achievements extend beyond mere backlog clearance; he has also introduced revolutionary reforms aimed at modernising visa application processes. The ministry has recently launched an electronic platform for processing visas. Applicants can freely upload pictures of their passport or travel documents directly to the platform of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS). If sustained over time, it will result in a harvest of positive impacts across sectors of the economy especially in tourism, as visitors may no longer have to wait unnecessarily for their visa application.
Enhanced e-passport facilities abroad
With the establishment of enhanced e-passport facilities abroad, the drive for improved service delivery extends to Nigerians in the diaspora. In the last year, the Federal Government has enhanced the operation of e-passport facilities in key Nigerian embassies across Europe, including Spain, Greece, Austria, Switzerland, and Italy.
Four months ago, Timi (Jec-TImi), a popular UK-based comedian made an appreciation video to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu narrating how he renewed his Nigerian passport in record time compared to before. “Before now, passport applications take about 3 – 5 months to be processed, thank you President Bola Tinubu” Timi has said.
Reforms, improved salaries and welfare…
In the last year, the federal government has demonstrated a commitment to improving the welfare and working conditions of paramilitary officers. It has approved the implementation of peculiar allowance and rent subsidies for officers and workers under the ministry. In addition, the government is working on establishing a Paramilitary Pension Board (PPP), as is the case with the Military and Police Pension Board.
Significant contributions have also been made to criminal justice reforms as 4,000 inmates were released from correctional centers.
Reflecting on the past year, many Nigerians home and abroad can testify to positive impacts as a result of the government’s reforms in the Ministry of Interior.
It may be a new chapter in Nigeria’s quest for efficient public service delivery and comprehensive criminal justice reform. The efforts in resolving passport backlogs, introducing innovative electronic platforms, enhancing overseas e-passport facilities, advocating for equitable salaries, and promoting criminal justice reform have set a new benchmark for excellence.