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From Sola Ojo, Abuja
The Federal Government of Nigeria has introduced an automated border security system to strengthen the country’s security and ease record-keeping.
This new system allows travellers to fill out an online entry card, which is then linked to their passport number, providing immediate access to their travel details, including visa type and duration of stay.
The federal government has already deployed the e-border solution to 40% of the country’s borders and is working to expand the system to all border entry points.
Speaking at a joint briefing involving the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, explained that the development would improve record keeping and border security in real-time.
“As you are coming into the country, you must have filled an entry card online. It is automated, so within the system, once they enter your passport number, the details will show up immediately, including when you entered, the type of visa you have, your stay period and all that.
“The system knows it already and pulls it out; as you are going out of the country, the first place you will approach is the boarding desk of an airline. That is where the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) comes in”, Keyamo said.
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On his part, Minister of Interior, Mr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, highlighted the positive outcomes of the existing collaboration between his ministry and Aviation, particularly in the area of national security.
“Let me start by appreciating the Honourable Minister of Aviation for all the support. What he said briefly has a very serious effect on our national security architecture,” Tunji-Ojo began.
“He spoke about the AP solution, the Advanced Passenger Information System. The two ministries collaborated, and today our borders are safer than ever. In the last couple of weeks, many people on Interpol’s red notice list have been arrested in Nigeria at the point of entry via the AP solution.
“These individuals, before this administration, would have found their way into Nigeria. But because we decided to work together in the interest of the renewed agenda of Mr. President, they have been arrested and handed over to Interpol.
“We are here today to discuss the third leg of our collaboration, the e-Visa and the introduction of the automated landing and exit cards.
“Previously, travellers had to fill out a paper form for landing and exit cards, but we are automating the process. This will take effect from May 4, 2025.
“The landing and exit cards will now be filled out online before boarding and presented to airlines before being allowed to board. The NCAA will be responsible for coordinating and regulating this, as they are fully committed to border security,” he explained.
