In a rare show of approval, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has publicly commended the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for his efforts in simplifying passport processing for Nigerian students abroad. This endorsement highlights a broader wave of recognition for the minister's work in driving President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope agenda within the critical ministry.
From Passport Backlogs to Border Security: A Catalogue of Reforms
The commendation from NANS President, Usman Adamu Nagwaza, is rooted in tangible results. A defining moment for the ministry was the clearance of a staggering backlog of 204,332 passport applications within just three weeks. This was followed by the introduction of a contactless passport renewal system for Nigerians in Europe, significantly easing a major pain point.
Beyond immigration, the reforms are deep and multifaceted. In border management, Nigeria faces severe challenges with over 1,400 illegal border routes against only 84 official posts. Terror groups and smugglers have long exploited these weaknesses. The ministry's response has been a technology-driven "Smart Border" solution, which has already reduced illegal crossings by 29%. This includes deploying automated e-gates at international airports, implementing an Advanced Passenger Information System (APIS), and expanding e-border surveillance.
Modernizing Systems and Boosting Morale
The push for modernization is relentless. A new E-Visa system now promises visa application responses within 24-48 hours. The ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card (ENBIC) has replaced outdated paper certificates, using advanced biometrics to curb fraud. For correctional services, Minister Tunji-Ojo oversaw the decongestion of facilities by clearing fines and compensations worth N585 million for 4,068 inmates, and upgraded medical facilities at the Kuje centre to perform major surgeries.
Welfare and capacity have also been prioritized. The ministry has promoted over 100,000 paramilitary officers, approved the recruitment of 30,000 new personnel, and established a Paramilitary Pensions Board. The Fire Service reports improved response times, with the value of property saved from fire incidents rising from N1.2 trillion in 2023 to N1.9 trillion in 2024.
The Foundation: Tinubu's Vision and Leadership
These achievements are consistently framed as part of President Bola Tinubu's overarching Renewed Hope Agenda. Observers note that the President's foresight in appointing "young, dynamic and forward-looking talents" like Tunji-Ojo is central to the strategy. The reforms across the Interior Ministry—encompassing immigration, correctional services, fire service, and border security—are seen as a direct translation of Tinubu's vision for a more secure and efficiently governed Nigeria.
The minister has signaled no intention of slowing down, with plans for a centralized document authentication system and continued expansion of technological integration. The ongoing transformation aims to build an Interior Ministry that not only secures the nation but also earns the pride and trust of its citizens, a key pillar in actualizing the promise of Renewed Hope.
