The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has disclosed the plan of the Federal Government to establish a centralised system targeted at tackling immigration document fraud.
Dr Tunji-Ojo who revealed this at a meeting with the United Kingdom’s Minister of State for Home Affairs, David Hanson, alongside representatives from the UK Home Office, National Crime Agency, and the British High Commission, emphasised the need for a unified verification process.
He explained that one of the major contributors to document fraud is the lack of a real-time, centralised verification system. “Right now, verifying 20 documents could require contacting 20 separate issuing bodies. This breeds inefficiency,” he noted.
According to the minister, the proposed solution will enable real-time verification of key documents such as passports, bank statements, and certificates through a single centre.
The Minister also stated that Nigeria is prepared to spearhead the development of a regional approach to border control, acknowledging that different regions require tailored solutions.
“A one-size-fits-all strategy will not work for such a diverse region,” he noted, adding that a regional border conference is being planned to create unified, yet flexible strategies for addressing migration and border security issues.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo also announced that Nigeria’s EU visa solution platform will go live on May 1. The platform aims to streamline visa processing while enhancing security and fostering international collaboration.
He added, “Under the new policy, applicants will receive a decision—approval or rejection—within 24 to 48 hours.”
Tying the initiative to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, the Minister reiterated the administration’s focus on crime prevention over prosecution. “Our success will be measured not by how many are convicted, but by how many frauds we prevent.”
In response, Hanson affirmed the UK’s continued support for Nigeria in improving its criminal justice system.
He noted that the UK is currently reviewing its e-visa and migration policies and is eager to strengthen trade, investment, and skills partnerships with Nigeria.
“The UK is committed to maintaining strong engagement with the Nigerian government,” Hanson said.
He stressed also the preparedness of the UK’s National Crime Agency, Home Office, and British High Commission to deepen collaboration in tackling crime and fraud.
