By Desire Uzochukwu
Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nandap, has warned officers against corruption and compromise of official processes, vowing that anyone found culpable will face the full wrath of the law.
Nandap gave the warning on Tuesday at the NIS headquarters in Abuja, where personnel gathered in jubilation to welcome her back following President Bola Tinubu’s approval of an 18-month extension of her service.
Addressing the officers, the Immigration chief said her extended tenure would be guided by discipline, transparency, accountability and improved service delivery, warning that misconduct would not be tolerated.
“Do not compromise the system, because any officer caught in such a situation will face the full wrath of the law. I promise you, and that is not an empty threat,” she declared.
Nandap expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for approving the extension, describing the reception by personnel as unexpected and deeply touching.
“I was shocked when I came into the headquarters and saw the jubilation, with officers lined up to welcome me. I am overwhelmed. This has touched me from the bottom of my heart,” she said.
She charged officers to prioritise the needs of Nigerians in the discharge of their duties, particularly in the delivery of immigration services, while maintaining strict compliance with security procedures.
“Now, more than ever, we must live up to that image. Do not forget that the bulk of what we do is people-centric. Our service delivery and customer service must always put Nigerians first,” the CG said.
However, she cautioned that a people-centred approach must not come at the expense of national security, insisting that officers must ensure that established procedures are followed at all times.
“But that does not mean we should compromise security. So, please, now more than ever, you must make sure you guard our processes properly and ensure that people are guided correctly,” she added.
The Immigration boss also urged personnel to improve public awareness of the Service’s procedures by providing applicants with accurate information on how to access its services.
She said officers must take responsibility for educating members of the public on immigration requirements and processes, stressing the importance of professionalism and accountability.
“Let them know how the processes work and how they can access our services,” Nandap said.
The 18-month extension is expected to provide continuity in the leadership of the Nigeria Immigration Service, which is responsible for immigration administration, border management and enforcement of the country’s immigration laws.
Nandap’s warning signals a renewed emphasis on discipline and integrity within the Service, alongside efforts to improve customer service without undermining national security.
