The Federal Government has revealed its move to strengthen national security and efficiency by unveiling a state-of-the-art data centre that can store 1.4 petabytes of data.

This facility, the Ministry of Interior, said would revolutionise the management of citizens’ bio-data and critical national information.

It noted that this feat will be achieved before May 29, 2024.

Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo stated this during a meeting with the delegation of the National Union of Nigerian Associations in Italy (NUNAI) led by its President, Chief Rowland Ndukuba at his office in Abuja.

In a Tuesday post on his X account, the minister shared a Monday-dated press release signed by the ministry’s Director of Press & Public Relations, Ozoya Imohimi.

“Modern challenges require novel, cutting-edge technological solutions,” he stated, highlighting that the integration of advanced technology will significantly enhance the efficiency and accountability of national operations.

The announcement comes as part of a broader initiative by the Ministry to address both domestic and international concerns.

In 2022, the President of the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria, Ikechukwu Nnamani, said data centres are critical to the digitisation of the economy and implementation of Internet of Things services.

Dr. Tunji-Ojo reassured the NUNAI delegation that “their requests for intervention and the establishment of passport front offices would be reviewed, reinforcing the Ministry’s commitment to supporting Nigerians abroad.”

Furthermore, the minister “made it clear that the Federal Government would not condone illegal migration and that Nigerians attempting to emigrate through unlawful means will face the consequences of their actions.”

Dr Tunji-Ojo also assured the NUNAI delegation that the well-being of Nigerians in Italy is a priority and that the Ministry of Interior will explore collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to support stranded Nigerians abroad.

The President of NUNAI, Chief Rowland Ndukuba, expressed his gratitude for the Ministry’s proactive efforts and urged continued collaboration to assist Nigerians facing challenges in Italy.

“He urged the minister and the ministry to continue collaborative efforts to assist stranded Nigerians in Italy,” it concluded.