2027: Immigration moves to stop foreign mercenaries, illegal arms from entering Nigeria
Nigerian Immigration Service Enacts Measures to Secure Borders Ahead of Elections
ABUJA, Nigeria — The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has announced new measures aimed at preventing the infiltration of foreign mercenaries and illegal weapons ahead of upcoming elections. Comptroller-General Kemi Nandap unveiled the initiative on Friday during a sensitization workshop for senior officers focused on election security, titled “Election Monitoring and Prevention of Intimidation.”
Represented by Deputy Comptroller-General Dr. Franca Usiwoma Nwanneka, Nandap emphasized the NIS’s critical role in safeguarding the nation’s borders and managing migration. She highlighted the necessity for collaborative efforts with other security agencies to address the multifaceted security challenges that elections may pose.
“We cannot tackle these complex issues alone,” Nwanneka stated, acknowledging the partnership with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other organizations for heightened cooperation.
Nandap underscored the importance of political neutrality, warning officers against using government resources to support any political agenda. “The Nigeria Immigration Service remains a non-partisan institution. Under no circumstances should our personnel use official resources to promote partisan interests,” she said.
The Comptroller-General called on officers to enhance intelligence gathering, border surveillance, and security protocols before, during, and after the elections. “You must ensure that our commands are adequately prepared through effective deployment and close coordination with relevant security agencies,” she directed.
Nandap also urged officers to actively participate in the Interagency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES), reinforcing the need for professionalism and accountability in carrying out their duties.
In a related statement, Oluwatosin Ajayi, Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), warned that criminals might exploit Nigeria’s borders during the election period to smuggle illegal weapons and foreign mercenaries. Ajayi, represented by Deputy Director-General of Operations and Intelligence Patrick Ikenweiwe, characterized the NIS as a vital component of Nigeria’s security framework.
“The Nigerian Immigration Service stands at the frontline of national defense, and its vigilance is essential for a peaceful and credible exercise,” Ajayi stated.
He reiterated the DSS’s commitment to collaborating with the NIS, particularly in monitoring land borders and other entry points. “No single agency can secure the electoral space alone. Our strength lies in synergy,” Ajayi added, urging security supervisors to exemplify leadership and ensure that their officers uphold neutrality and professionalism throughout the electoral process.
