By Nkechi Eze
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has underscored the pivotal role of technology in combating corruption and improving service delivery within the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).
Speaking at the opening ceremony of a two-day nationwide sensitization campaign held at the NIS Headquarters in Abuja, themed “Increased Digitization and Consolidated Innovations for Efficient and Transparent Services”, ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN—represented by the Commission’s Spokesperson, Mr. Demola Bakare, fsi—highlighted key areas of concern, including recruitment fraud, unethical practices in passport processing, and misconduct in port operations.
Dr. Aliyu who commended NIS for its strides in enhancing efficiency and transparency through digitization and anti-corruption initiatives emphasized the need to strengthen cybersecurity for recruitment portals further, restructure the performance management system (PMS), and strictly enforce standard operating procedures (SOPs), particularly at border entry points.
The ICPC Chairman also recommended introducing an official “administrative cost” on passport applications to curb illegal facilitation fees while improving staff welfare.
Referring to the NIS’ recent Ethics and Integrity Compliance Scorecard (EICS) rating, he noted the Service’s progression from non-compliance in 2023 to partial compliance in 2024 and stressed, however, that there remains significant room for improvement.
Dr Aliyu further advocated for the enhancement of the whistleblower mechanism and strict enforcement of consequences for corruption-related offenses as critical measures to elevate NIS operations.
“The ultimate goal of any anti-corruption initiative is to ensure effective public service delivery,” he stated. “Unless citizens begin to experience meaningful, positive changes in their daily interactions with public institutions, it will be difficult to gain their full support for anti-corruption reforms.”, he stressed.
Dr Aliyu concluded by encouraging NIS to leverage technology not only for operational efficiency but also for greater accountability, ensuring that reforms result in tangible improvements for Nigerians.
“With sustained efforts, citizens will witness a more transparent and efficient immigration service. The effective use of Anti-Corruption Technology (ACT) will enhance citizens’ welfare and contribute to achieving national goals of good governance,” he added.
Declaring the sensitization campaign open, the Comptroller General of NIS, Kemi Nanna Nandap, reaffirmed the Service’s critical role in national security, border management, and the facilitation of seamless migration. She emphasized that integrity, transparency, and efficiency are not just ideals but necessities for NIS operations.
“Corruption erodes public trust and hampers collective progress, discouraging both local and foreign investment, This is why NIS remains committed to expanding digitization, improving service delivery, and eliminating opportunities for corrupt practices.” ” she affirmed.
Highlighting several innovations being implemented by the NIS, the Comptroller General mentioned the Passport Automation Programme, Contactless Passport Application Process, E-Gates, Body Cameras, and E-Visas as key initiatives aimed at minimizing corruption and restoring public confidence.
She commended the partnership with ICPC and other national and international anti-corruption agencies, noting that these collaborations have strengthened internal mechanisms and promoted a culture of ethical service delivery within NIS.
“Our officers are being trained to embrace the principles of horsemanship and uphold the highest standards of service ethics,” she said.
The sensitization campaign is part of a broader effort to deepen reforms, foster accountability, and deliver transparent services to Nigerians.
