The Nigeria Immigration Service announced on Friday that it is improving its border security units to enhance surveillance and patrol.
The newly-appointed head of immigration, Mrs Kemi Nandap, mentioned this while the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, launched 30 operational vehicles for border surveillance and patrol in Abuja.
Nandap explained that they will also adjust their border corps structure and have agile sector commanders to conduct regular surveillance and patrol of the border according to their main responsibility.
This comes after Nigeria reopened its border with Niger Republic.
This move is occurring during increased terrorist activities in the northern part of the country where frequent killings and kidnappings have been happening.
The nation is grappling with multiple abductions, attacks by suspected bandits, and other violent crimes, leading to renewed calls for a multi-level policing system, including state police.
However, Nandap stressed the importance of effective border surveillance and patrol in protecting the nation's sovereignty, citizens, economic prosperity, and ensuring regular, safe, and orderly migration.
She mentioned that the 30 surveillance vehicles represent a significant investment in their capabilities, providing their dedicated officers with the necessary tools for their duties.
The head of Immigration emphasized the significance of the vehicles in demonstrating their strong commitment to border security and determination to outpace those who seek to undermine the country's laws and safety.
She added that with improved mobility, their border patrol teams will be better equipped to identify and prevent illegal activities such as migrant smuggling, human trafficking, and other transnational crimes.
She instructed all NIS officers and personnel to use and maintain the vehicles diligently, take ownership and responsibility for securing the country's borders, and remain determined and vigilant.
She also advised them to uphold integrity and avoid engaging in any actions that violate their laws or damage the reputation of the Nigerian Immigration Service.
She affirmed that there will be no tolerance for any compromise to the nation's security and expressed her trust in all the officers.
Nandap expressed gratitude to the Interior Minister, Tunji-Ojo for his unwavering support to the Nigeria Immigration Service in achieving exceptional efficiency in Migration Management and Border Security.
