Nigeria Strengthens Border Governance Through NIS–IOM Collaboration

Nigeria has renewed efforts to modernize its border management system through enhanced collaboration between the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). The partnership seeks to improve migration management, reinforce security, and build institutional capacity across the country’s borders.

The initiative was highlighted during a strategic two-day meeting in Lagos, where senior officials from NIS and IOM reviewed ongoing cooperation and outlined plans for future engagement. The event provided a platform to assess operational gaps, explore technological solutions, and develop a roadmap for a more effective migration management system.

Comptroller-General of NIS, Kemi Nanna Nandap, emphasised that the collaboration marks a significant step toward a modern, technology-driven approach to border governance. She noted that leveraging digital identification systems and electronic monitoring tools would strengthen security while improving efficiency at ports of entry.

IOM representatives praised NIS for its visionary leadership in adopting digital systems and enhancing operational capacity. They highlighted the country’s role as a regional reference point in border management and expressed their commitment to supporting reforms, training, and strategic initiatives.

International partners, including representatives from the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands, delivered messages of support, stressing the importance of joint action in addressing irregular migration, human trafficking, and cross-border security challenges. Their contributions underscored the global dimension of effective border governance.

Technical sessions and presentations during the forum focused on identifying challenges and proposing solutions in areas such as identity verification, border monitoring, and policy development. The discussions aimed to create actionable recommendations that would guide the next phase of NIS–IOM collaboration.

Officials concluded that the strengthened partnership would enhance Nigeria’s regional influence in migration management across West and Central Africa. The initiative is expected to deliver a safer, more efficient, and technologically advanced border system, setting a benchmark for neighboring countries.