By Jubril Bada

The National Joint Youths and Students Stakeholders have commended the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for the transformation he has brought to the Ministry of Interior within his first year in office.

The students and youths, who gave the commendation at a press conference held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre in Akure, praised his outstanding performance, which has led to smart and quick service delivery.

The press conference was attended by the Minister’s Special Adviser on Youth Affairs, Com. Moshood Olawale, along with representatives from NANS, NAOSS, the Ondo State Chapter of the National Youth Council, Niger Delta Youths, Akoko youths, and other youth and student groups in the state.

Speaking on behalf of the National Joint Youth and Students Stakeholders, Ifon Daniel Samuel highlighted that one of the most remarkable achievements under the Minister’s stewardship has been the unprecedented reforms within the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).

“Inheriting a backlog of 204,332 passport applications, Tunji-Ojo did not shy away from this daunting challenge. Instead, with a clear vision and decisive action, he orchestrated the clearance of this backlog within an astounding three-week period.

“This feat, by all standards, is a testament to his commitment to efficiency and service delivery. Through this singular achievement, he has restored faith in the NIS, reaffirming its capacity to meet the needs of Nigerian citizens with diligence and competence.

“But Tunji-Ojo’s achievements do not end there. His leadership has ushered in a new era of modernised and efficient service delivery in the immigration sector. With his pledge to ensure that passport applications will now be processed within two weeks starting in February 2025, he has set a new standard for responsiveness and reliability.

“Additionally, the introduction of home and office delivery services for passports represents a forward-thinking approach that prioritises convenience and accessibility for all Nigerians,” he stated.

On a specific note, Samuel said the initiative to allow personal uploads of passport photographs further streamlines the process, making it more user-friendly and efficient, and eliminating unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.

“Under his leadership, the Ministry of Interior has not only excelled in service delivery but has also demonstrated fiscal responsibility by saving the government millions of naira through an automated application system.

“These reforms underscore Tunji-Ojo’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and the prudent management of public resources,” he added.

He also appreciated President Bola Tinubu for appointing Tunji-Ojo as Minister of Interior, saying the choice has proven to be a masterstroke, as the Ministry has been rejuvenated and has become a beacon of hope for Nigerian youths.

“When Tunji-Ojo was appointed as Minister of Interior, expectations were high. As a young and dynamic leader, many looked to him to bring a fresh perspective and innovative solutions to the challenges facing the Ministry. Today, it is evident that he has not only met these expectations but has far exceeded them.

“As young Nigerians, we find in Tunji-Ojo a leader who not only represents our aspirations but also delivers on his promises. He has shown that with dedication, vision, and hard work, the youth can indeed drive meaningful change in our society.

“The Ministry of Interior, under his guidance, has not disappointed us, and we are confident that his continued leadership will only bring more progress and innovation,” Samuel noted.