Nigeria’s New Immigration Tech Complex: 10 Interpol Suspects Arrested

The Federal Government of Nigeria has apprehended ten individuals listed on Interpol’s wanted list while attempting to enter the country. This development was disclosed by the Minister of Interior, Mr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during the launch of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) Technology Innovation Complex in Abuja.

President Bola Tinubu attended the event, which marked the unveiling of a state-of-the-art Data Complex at the NIS headquarters in Sauka. The facility includes a Command and Control Centre for regular migration, an NIS Data Centre, an ECOWAS Biometric Card Production Centre, an Interior Data Centre, and a 0.5KW solar power plant.

Improved Border Security and Surveillance

The interior minister emphasized that the new infrastructure is designed to assess the risk levels of individuals entering Nigeria, detect irregular migration, and monitor unmanned borders in remote areas.

“In just one week, 10 individuals flagged by Interpol and immigration were intercepted. Previously, such people could have entered Nigeria and caused harm. This sends a clear message: Nigeria is now off-limits to criminal elements under the current leadership,” Tunji-Ojo stated.

He highlighted the facility’s 24/7 surveillance system powered by a 0.5KW solar energy plant and managed by 250 well-trained officers working in eight-hour shifts.

Economic and Operational Benefits

The facility is expected to save Nigeria over ₦300 million annually by optimizing border security operations and reducing inefficiencies. It also introduces advanced measures such as automated visa approvals within 48 hours and improved communication among security agencies.

“With the ECOWAS travel document and enhanced border governance, we now oversee over 200 borders. This milestone reflects Nigeria’s commitment to effective and sustainable security measures,” the minister added.

Tunji-Ojo acknowledged the support of the National Security Adviser’s office in establishing the centre, which features seven key components, including a data centre, command and control centre, visa approval hub, and solar energy farm.