Sulyman Pakoyi

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has emphasised the importance of integrating technology into security frameworks to enhance security operations in Nigeria.

He made the statement during the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) 34th and 35th combined Convocation ceremonies held on Friday, November 29, 2024.

According to the minister, technological tools enable security operatives to maintain real-time surveillance and ensure border security, facilitating rapid responses to potential threats.

He further stated that the increase in digitalisation has heightened the need for cybersecurity and robust data protection measures to prevent cyber attacks, particularly on financial institutions and government databases.

Tunji-Ojo also highlighted the efforts of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) in leveraging technology to bolster security architecture through the deployment of advanced remote sensing technologies along Nigeria’s vast borders.

“Today, all persons entering the country through our international airports are pre-profiled before arrival. This was made possible by investing in infrastructure, including the installation of electronic gates (E-gates) in all our international airports and a state-of-the-art command and control centre with an interactive Advance Passenger Information System (APIS),” he said.

He advised the graduates to be innovative and to develop creative solutions that can positively impact Nigerian society.

In her opening remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of FUTA, Prof Adenike Temidayo Oladiji, congratulated the 6,405 graduates on their convocation.

She announced that the institution had produced 519 first-class graduates from the 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 sessions.

She also acknowledged the accomplishments of the three best graduating students.

According to Prof Oladiji, “FUTA has received numerous accolades locally and internationally as a result of the feats of our graduates. And it is my fervent hope that in no distant time, your name will be on the roll of worthy alumni making the university proud. The state of the economy of our nation calls for a life of discipline.”

She encouraged the graduates to uphold the values of the institution and to continue making FUTA proud.