Nigeria is ushering in a new chapter in national security and travel modernisation as the Federal Government says the deploying cutting-edge technology at international borders now preempts threats, improves passenger experience, and strengthens the country’s sovereignty in an increasingly digital world.
Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Nigeria’s Interior Minister, reveals that the Advanced Passenger Information System (APIS) – a digital intelligence platform deployed in partnership with aviation authorities – is intercepting high-risk travellers before they enter Nigerian territory. The move enhances border control while laying the groundwork for deeper regional and global travel integration.
“This cutting-edge technology has played a role in improving border control which has resulted in numerous individuals on INTERPOL’s red notice list being intercepted and handed over to international authorities at Nigerian entry points,” Dr Tunji-Ojo says, describing the system as “an achievement credited to the joint efforts of both ministries.”
As part of this digital transition, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is now supporting the installation and activation of e-gates at key international airports including Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport in Abuja. These biometric-based gates are automating passenger entry and exit, improving both security and efficiency.
During a high-level meeting on immigration enforcement protocols held in Abuja, the Interior Minister, discloses that individuals flagged on INTERPOL’s red notice have already been apprehended at Nigerian airports, thanks to APIS – a milestone signalling the system’s growing operational impact.
Digital security gains under Renewed Hope Agenda
The Interior Minister cites the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu as the policy backbone driving the new digital security strategy. He acknowledges the Ministry of Aviation, led by Minister Festus Keyamo, as “not only a partner but a pillar” in the administration’s goal to secure Nigeria’s borders without compromising its reputation for hospitality.
“What we are doing here today is a further testament to the determination of this government to foster cooperation between key ministries with overlapping mandates,” Dr Tunji-Ojo says during a joint press briefing.
As part of this digital transition, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is now supporting the installation and activation of e-gates at key international airports including Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport in Abuja. These biometric-based gates are automating passenger entry and exit, improving both security and efficiency.
“Building on the success of APIS,” Dr Tunji-Ojo explains, “FAAN supported the installation of e-gates at major airports… now operational, further enhancing the efficiency and security of passenger movement.”
A future-ready immigration system
The Federal Government is also rolling out an automated e-visa system and digital landing and exit cards, part of what the Minister calls a larger digital transformation agenda.
These new systems, developed in collaboration with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), require travellers to complete immigration documentation online before boarding their flights. Dr Tunji-Ojo says this development is not merely about speed, but also about national security and transparent governance.
As part of this digital transition, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is now supporting the installation and activation of e-gates at key international airports including Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport in Abuja. These biometric-based gates are automating passenger entry and exit, improving both security and efficiency.
“This is not just about convenience, it’s about securing our borders without compromising our hospitality,” he notes. “With over 230 million brilliant people, Nigeria must lead in technology and innovation.”
The e-visa platform, which integrates with global criminal intelligence databases like INTERPOL, is promising to eliminate bureaucratic bottlenecks and reduce dependency on intermediaries. According to the Minister, it marks “a significant step forward” in modernising the nation’s immigration landscape.
Dr Tunji-Ojo confirms that the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and NCAA are forming a joint technical team to oversee the deployment and protocols guiding the rollout of these systems. Importantly, he adds that the new digital landing and exit cards will be offered free of charge to foreign travellers, used strictly for security and data management.
Collaboration over competition
Barrister Festus Keyamo, Nigeria’s Aviation and Aerospace Development Minister, is aligning his ministry with the national security priority. He emphasises the full commitment of aviation agencies to the initiative.
“We have agreed to work tirelessly and seamlessly on this new initiative,” Keyamo says, reiterating that “all agencies involved are fully aligned and committed to the successful implementation of this important programme.”
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