Our borders are the frontline of national security, and irregular migration must not compromise the safety of Nigerians
By Joy Onu, Abuja
The Ministry of Interior has called on its agencies to intensify operational effectiveness across border management, emergency response, correctional rehabilitation, and protection of critical infrastructure, emphasizing that service delivery and national security remain top priorities.
Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo spoke at the closing of the ministry’s three-day sectoral retreat in Abuja on Saturday, commending the agencies for their achievements while warning that past successes cannot be a reason for complacency.
“Our belief is peer review without putting pressure on one another. Every agency must help the others succeed because we are only as strong as our weakest link,” Tunji-Ojo said. “We cannot afford to live in the euphoria of yesterday. We have to live for tomorrow and always give our best.”
Highlighting border control as a critical concern, the minister urged the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to strengthen efforts to curb irregular migration and deepen collaboration with border communities and state governments. Officers are to be equipped with advanced tools to ensure that every border post is monitored effectively.
“Our borders are the frontline of national security, and irregular migration must not compromise the safety of Nigerians,” Tunji-Ojo said. The NIS is also expected to enhance passport and visa services and conduct vulnerability assessments at key entry points.
The minister tasked the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) with safeguarding strategic infrastructure and critical national assets, including developing systems for early threat detection and rapid response. Similarly, the Federal Fire Service (FFS) was directed to expand its emergency and rescue capacity, including training more fire marshals and collaborating with private partners to improve nationwide preparedness.
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) received renewed guidance to focus on rehabilitation programs, ensuring inmates return to society as responsible citizens. Emphasis was placed on humane custody, welfare, and post-release support systems to reduce reoffending.
Tunji-Ojo reminded agencies that their responsibilities reflect the trust Nigerians place in them. “You have signed a contract with me, and I have signed one with the President. We must keep these commitments. This is not business as usual,” he said.
Retired Maj.-Gen. Abdulmalik Jubril, chairman of the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), reaffirmed plans to ensure merit-based recruitment, enforce ethical standards, and maintain citizen engagement in oversight. Leaders from the NSCDC, NCoS, NIS, and FFS also outlined initiatives to enhance inter-agency coordination, personnel welfare, and service delivery.
Tunji-Ojo concluded by urging continued dedication and focus. “We have been fortunate, but luck alone is not enough. Every action we take shapes the trust Nigerians place in us. We must deliver with integrity, discipline, and commitment,” he said.
