In recognition of the vital role Nigeria has been playing on the global stage of electronic travel documents, the country has been re-elected as member of the International Civil Aviation Organisation Public Key Directory (ICAO-PKD) Board for the fourth time.
ICAO-PKD is a central repository for exchanging information required to authenticate electronic Machine Readable Travel Documents (e-MRTDs) such as e-passports, electronic ID cards and visible digital seals.
The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) in a statement by its spokesperson, DCI Tony Akuneme Kuneme said the re-election of Nigeria and other countries to the board was the highpoint of the 29th ICAO-PKD board meeting held in Uganda from November 16 to 17, 2022.
The service described the board as the standing body responsible for ICAO administration and operation procedures to ensure efficient operation of the PKD, including its financial and contractual management. It as well develops policies.
It added that ICAO-PKD is made up of 88 member countries, with 15 board members who serve 3 years term each. Board members are nominated and voted by PKD participants and are appointed by ICAO Council in accordance with the provision of the MoU.
Nigeria has over the years been an active participant in the ICAO-PKD board meetings and has contributed immensely, especially on the issue of electronic Passport control system and border control solution.
The Nigerian delegation was led by the Comptroller General of Immigration, Isah Jere Idris.
