The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has successfully conducted a trial run of the new electronic gates (e-gates) at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, signaling a near-complete project at 99 percent readiness.
These e-gates, slated for operational deployment next week, are designed to expedite passenger screening, processing each individual in under a minute using advanced data page scanning technology.
Accompanied by high-ranking officials including Dr. Aishetu Ndayako, Permanent Secretary, and Kemi Nanna Nandap, Comptroller-General of Immigration, Tunji-Ojo emphasized the e-gates’ role in streamlining passenger flow, reducing manual checks, and enhancing overall efficiency at border points.
The initiative will see a significant rollout of e-gates across the country, with 29 units at Lagos Airport, and additional installations in Enugu, Kano, and Port Harcourt, totaling 38 e-gates.
Rigorous testing of the system has proven its robustness, successfully rejecting fraudulent and expired passports while validating authentic documents, thereby bolstering the nation’s security measures.
Tunji-Ojo expressed confidence that these technological advancements will prevent unauthorized entry into Nigeria and align with President Bola Tinubu’s vision for a seamless travel experience as part of his Renewed Hope Agenda.
The synergy between various government agencies, including the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigeria Customs Service, was highlighted as a key factor in this transformative effort.
The Minister also acknowledged the support of the Minister of Aviation, Hon Festus Keyamo (SAN), and other stakeholders in realizing this milestone.
He reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to simplifying processes for citizens and enhancing national security through ongoing reforms in the Nigeria Immigration Service.
This development marks a significant leap in infrastructure, described by Tunji-Ojo as both massive and unprecedented, under the guidance and support of President Tinubu.
