Olubumi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, has revealed plans to initiate a comprehensive review of the nation’s immigration policy, in order to align it with the contemporary global landscape.
During a visit to his office in Abuja, he received the Chairman and management staff of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, NiDCOM, where he emphasized the necessity of reciprocity in the formulation of immigration laws.
Stressing the importance of mutual cooperation, Tunji-Ojo expressed the government’s commitment to reciprocate visa privileges extended to Nigerians by other countries. He highlighted the need for a supportive framework that enables Nigerians in the Diaspora to contribute more significantly to their homeland’s development.
Furthermore, acknowledging the indispensable role of NiDCOM, Tunji-Ojo underlined the significance of the agency’s role beyond welfare initiatives. He underscored the importance of providing concrete solutions for the future advancement of Nigerians residing abroad.
Addressing concerns related to passport processing, the Minister of Interior pledged to enhance the printing capacity in the United Kingdom by increasing the number of printing machines to four. This move aims to alleviate the challenges faced by Nigerian citizens in the UK regarding passport acquisition.
Highlighting the substantial impact of remittances from the Diaspora, which currently stands at an impressive twenty-six billion dollars, Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasized the urgent need to create an enabling environment that encourages increased investment from Nigerians living abroad.
Court Schedules Nov. 7 Hearing for Interior Minister’s Removal
‘NiDCOM deserve all the support needed to carryout it functions and the ministry of interior would provide that support to ensure you have succeeded. Your budget should be special to enable you carry out the task ahead of you’.
In response, Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairperson of NiDCOM, expressed her gratitude to the Minister for his exemplary leadership in transforming the passport administration process.
She commended the ongoing developments in the sector, emphasizing the positive reception from Nigerians residing abroad.
Furthermore, Mrs. Dabiri-Erewa highlighted the significant contributions of Nigerians in the Diaspora, citing successful initiatives such as the establishment and management of several hospitals by Nigerian medical professionals. She also stressed the Commission’s dedication to promoting a favorable image of Nigeria on the global stage.
However, she lamented the insufficient budgetary allocation for NiDCOM, considering the extensive tasks at hand.