The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has announced plans to roll out an electronic visa (e-Visa) system aimed at streamlining the travel process and reducing corruption in visa applications.
Speaking at the 3rd Nationwide Sensitization Campaign on Service Efficiency and Zero Tolerance for Corruption in Abuja, Comptroller General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap, emphasized that the e-Visa initiative would minimize human contact, thereby curbing bribery and inefficiency.
“The e-Visa system is designed to simplify the application process for travelers and ensure transparency,” Nandap stated. “By automating the process, we reduce the risk of corruption and make service delivery more efficient.”
The immigration boss also highlighted several other anti-corruption measures, including:
Passport Automation: A digital application system that reduces processing time and eliminates the manual loopholes that previously enabled corruption.
Contactless Passport Applications: Nigerians can now apply for passports online without physical contact with immigration officers, further preventing corrupt practices.
e-Gates at Airports: These automated border control systems enhance security, speed up passenger clearance, and reduce the need for human intervention.
Body Cameras for Officers: This initiative promotes transparency, helps document evidence, and builds public trust in immigration officers.
Interpol Partnership: NIS is working with international agencies to strengthen intelligence sharing and combat transnational crimes.
Nandap reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to eliminating corruption, stating that officers found guilty of misconduct would face strict disciplinary action.
The NIS, in collaboration with anti-corruption bodies such as the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), aims to uphold integrity while enhancing national security and border management.
