By Tola Gbadamosi
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Ondo State Command, has commenced a sensitisation programme on the National Migration Policy (NMP 2025), urging officers to embrace ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening migration governance and national security.
The programme, held in Akure with the theme “Enhancing Awareness for Effective Migration Management and Border Governance,” was designed to deepen officers’ understanding of the updated national policy framework.
Speaking at the event on behalf of the Comptroller-General of NIS, Kemi Nanna Nandap, the state Immigration Comptroller, Uwadiaye Ogbemudia, described the policy as a critical milestone in Nigeria’s migration management efforts.
Nandap noted that the service plays a pivotal role in national development and security, explaining that in response to evolving migration dynamics, the NIS has introduced several reforms to improve efficiency and security.
Nandap disclosed that the reforms include the e-Visa regime, contactless passport application system, e-border infrastructure, passport personalisation centres and the ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card (ENBIC).
She stressed that migration remains a key driver of national development, security, and international cooperation, underscoring the need for a coordinated and forward-looking framework.
Highlighting global realities, she noted that while borders serve as critical defence lines against crimes such as human trafficking, migrant smuggling and terrorism, they also function as gateways for trade, investment and tourism.
“This underscores the need to strike a balance between security and facilitation, anchored on sustained inter-agency collaboration,” she said.
Nandap further stated that the 2025 policy builds on the 2015 National Migration Policy by addressing emerging challenges and strengthening institutional coordination in line with global commitments, including the Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs), and the Global Compact for Migration.
She emphasised that effective implementation of the policy will depend on the professionalism, commitment and adaptability of officers across all commands.
Also speaking, a facilitator at the programme, Paul Yero, urged officers to stay informed about evolving migration trends and policy changes.
“Migration is dynamic; it continues to evolve. Officers must remain aware of these changes to effectively carry out their duties,” she said.
She added that the policy is designed to protect Nigerians while ensuring a more secure and efficient migration system.