The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) says it has intensified border security operations through the deployment of advanced technology and improved surveillance systems aimed at curbing irregular migration and migrant smuggling across Nigeria’s borders.
This was disclosed by the Service Public Relations Officer, Mr Akinsola Akinlabi, during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja on Wednesday.
According to him, the agency has recorded significant progress in detecting and preventing illegal cross-border movement through sustained patrols and enhanced monitoring of both land and remote border routes.
Akinlabi explained that officers stationed along various border corridors regularly intercept individuals attempting to travel through unauthorised routes.
In many cases, he said, such migrants are intercepted and reunited with their families or returned to their points of origin.
He noted that the service’s surveillance architecture is specifically designed to cover difficult terrains that are often inaccessible to physical patrol teams, allowing authorities to monitor high-risk migration routes more effectively.
The NIS spokesperson added that the agency’s mandate includes preventing migrant smuggling and ensuring proper regulation of both inbound and outbound movement across Nigeria’s borders.
He further stated that irregular migration remains a complex challenge that requires more than enforcement alone, describing it as a societal issue that must be addressed through awareness and education.
Akinlabi said the Comptroller-General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap, has prioritised policy reforms aimed at discouraging illegal migration, protecting lives, and strengthening international cooperation.
He added that the service has expanded public enlightenment campaigns, stakeholder engagements, and advisory programmes to educate Nigerians on the dangers associated with irregular migration.
On technological interventions, Akinlabi highlighted that modern surveillance tools have become central to border management efforts, enabling the service to monitor areas that are physically difficult to access.
He said technology has significantly improved the ability of the NIS to detect suspicious movements and respond quickly to potential security threats along Nigeria’s borders.
The spokesperson also confirmed that the service, in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior, has completed the first phase of its e-Border Solution project and is preparing to begin the second phase.
He explained that the expanded system will further strengthen surveillance infrastructure and improve overall efficiency in border control operations nationwide.
Akinlabi commended the federal government for its continued support, noting that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has prioritised border security under its Renewed Hope Agenda.
He also acknowledged the role of the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, describing his support as crucial to the implementation of reforms within the immigration service.
According to him, sustained investment in technology, personnel training, and inter-agency collaboration remains key to achieving long-term improvements in border security and migration management.
