The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nandap, has charged newly promoted Comptrollers of immigration to demonstrate high level of vigilance and not compromise on professionalism in the face of the nation’s security challenges.
Nandap who made this known at the decoration ceremony of 46 newly promoted comptrollers, also stressed that promotion in a disciplined service is “neither automatic nor solely a function of years in service,” adding that advancement is earned through “sustained dedication, professional competence, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to duty.”
Nandap, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his “visionary leadership and steadfast commitment to institutional reforms and national security,” as the ongoing transformation within the Service is driven by the administration’s resolve to strengthen security institutions.
The NIS boss also acknowledged the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for providing “strategic direction, diligent oversight, and resolute dedication to strengthening our operational capacities.”
Nandap while welcoming dignitaries and families of the newly elevated officers, said the presence of stakeholders underscored “the collective support that sustains the men and women of this service.”
She told the officers that their decoration symbolized the trust reposed in them and signaled an expectation of “enhanced leadership, sound judgment, accountability, and exemplary conduct,” adding that their roles at senior levels require clarity of vision, decisiveness, empathy, and the ability to mentor and inspire.
“At this advanced stage of your careers, professional competence must be matched with strong leadership attributes,” she said. “Considering the current security challenges our nation faces, we must remain vigilant and unrelenting in the fight against multifaceted threats. Your actions will set the tone, and your conduct will continue to reflect the core values and reputation of this service.”
Nandap maintained that the NIS would “not tolerate any form of indolence or unprofessional conduct,” urging officers to embrace innovation, adapt to emerging challenges, and always place the interest of the Service above personal considerations.
While congratulating the newly promoted personnel, she acknowledged the sacrifice of their families. “Their patience, encouragement, and understanding have been instrumental to your professional journey,” she declared, inviting applause for them.
Nandap also highlighted ongoing reforms in the Service, including upgrades in visa and passport processes, contactless solutions, the newly introduced EMBIC system, and the forthcoming STEP initiative—a biometric-based Single Travel Emergency Passport expected to replace the Emergency Travel Certificate in 2026.
“We cannot afford to take our eyes off the ball,” she said. “This administration is focused on reforms and transformation, and you are the drivers of these reforms.”
In his remarks, the Deputy Comptroller General in charge of Human Resources Management, Afolayan Ayeni, recalled that the Minister of Interior had, on assumption of office, prioritized prompt promotion of personnel—an effort now yielding dividends.
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