By Monsurat Abisoye
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) says it has strengthened border security across the country through the deployment of advanced technology and enhanced surveillance systems aimed at curbing irregular migration and migrant smuggling.
The Service Public Relations Officer, Mr Akinsola Akinlabi, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja, noting that the NIS had recorded significant successes in detecting and preventing illegal movement of persons through the nation’s land borders. He attributed the achievements to sustained border patrol operations and surveillance mechanisms, adding that officers routinely intercept irregular migrants attempting to enter or leave the country through unauthorised routes, often returning them to their families or countries of origin.
Akinlabi explained that the Service’s Border Surveillance Architecture was designed to monitor remote and difficult terrains inaccessible to personnel, enabling the identification of routes commonly used for irregular migration and the strategic deployment of security assets. He said surveillance operations cover both inbound and outbound movements, while also addressing migrant smuggling as part of its core mandate.
According to him, irregular migration remains a complex societal challenge that requires collective responsibility beyond enforcement, stressing that public misunderstanding of its risks continues to fuel the problem. He noted that Comptroller-General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap, had prioritised policy measures to prevent illegal migration, protect lives, and promote positive bilateral relations, alongside public enlightenment campaigns, stakeholder engagements, and advisories to discourage irregular travel.
Akinlabi also highlighted technology as a key pillar in modern border management, stating that while physical patrols remain essential, technological systems now enable monitoring of inaccessible areas and improved detection of illegal activities. He disclosed that with support from the Ministry of Interior, the NIS has completed the first phase of its e-Border Solution project and is preparing to commence the second phase to further enhance surveillance capacity nationwide.
He commended the Federal Government for its continued support under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, as well as the backing of the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, noting that their support has been instrumental to ongoing reforms and operational effectiveness. He added that the government remains committed to strengthening border security and migration management across the country.