Ministry of Interior Nigeria

MINISTRY OF INTERIOR

PRESS RELEASE

FG Strengthens Partnership with Creative Industry to Build a Safer Nigeria

The Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to national development through strategic collaboration with the creative industry.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by Mr. Emeka Rollas, President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria and his delegation in his office on thursday, the Minister emphasized the vital role of advocacy, education, and public enlightenment in building a safer and stronger Nigeria.

Dr. Tunji-Ojo congratulated Mr. Rollas, on his successful tenure and re-election as President of the Guild, commending his dedication to the creative sector. He noted that the partnership between the Ministry and the creative industry would help communicate government policies, shape public understanding, and counter misinformation.

Highlighting reforms within the Ministry, the Honourable Minister pointed to remarkable progress in correctional services. He revealed that Nigeria recorded approximately 13,000 recidivists in 2023, but by 2025, the figure had dropped to about 1,000—an achievement attributed to deliberate investments in skills acquisition, education, vocational training, and rehabilitation programmes. He noted that our correctional centres are increasingly becoming truly correctional, rehabilitative, and transformational institutions.

Dr. Tunji-Ojo also highlighted improvements in passport administration, immigration services, fire safety, and civil defence operations, stressing that these reforms reflect the government’s determination to confront challenges with courage and deliver tangible results.

“Leadership is about confronting challenges and solving problems. We do not see obstacles; we see opportunities for solutions and progress,” the Minister stated. He further encouraged the creative industry to continue serving as responsible voices that enlighten the public and strengthen national unity.

The Honourable Minister reiterated that we are not where we used to be, and that is evidence of progress. He called for collective responsibility, patriotism, and unity in addressing national challenges, affirming that Nigeria’s future depends on the resolve of its people to work together for peace, justice, and prosperity.

In his remarks, Mr. Emeka Rollas, the leader of CEGGI, commended the Federal Government for its ongoing efforts in addressing the country's security and development challenges.

He disclosed that the group is already engaging stakeholders within the creative industry to support government initiatives and help promote messages that encourage national unity, peace and responsible citizenship.

Both parties expressed their commitment to working together in the interest of national development and a more secure Nigeria.

E-signed
Mrs Mary Ali, anipr
Head, Press and Public Relations
5th June 2026

MINISTRY OF INTERIOR

PRESS RELEASE

The Federal Government Reaffirms Commitment to Transparent Immigration Reforms, Improved Service Delivery, and Enhanced National Security

The Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to strengthening transparency, security, and efficiency within Nigeria's immigration system.

The Minister made this known while receiving the Head of the European Union Delegation to Nigeria, Ambassador Gautier Mignot, the Vice President of the European Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria (EUROCHAM), Mr. Frederik Klinke, and their delegation in his office on Thursday. He emphasized that the ongoing reforms are designed to strengthen transparency, improve service delivery, and enhance national security.

According to the Minister, the recent reforms were introduced following the discovery of widespread irregularities within the expatriate quota and residence permit system.

Speaking during the meeting, he disclosed that investigations conducted during the reform process revealed extensive misuse of expatriate quotas and permits, including the issuance and use of fraudulent documentation by unauthorized agents and intermediaries.

"In several cases, companies unknowingly operated with fake quotas that were never issued by the Nigerian Government. Some agents exploited weaknesses in the old system, charging companies significant sums while processing fraudulent documents," he said.

The Minister explained that the Ministry of Interior and the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) implemented an integrated digital platform linking quota approvals directly with residence permit processing, thereby eliminating duplication and enabling real-time verification.

Under the new arrangement, expatriate quota approvals granted by the Ministry automatically become accessible to the Nigerian Immigration Service, ensuring that residence permits are issued only against valid and verifiable quotas.

"This integration allows us to know exactly who is residing and working in Nigeria. It improves transparency, enhances security, and removes opportunities for manipulation," he added.

The Minister further highlighted the benefits of the digital platform, which now enables companies to manage applications directly without relying on immigration consultants or third-party agents.

According to him, employers can submit applications online, monitor their status through dedicated dashboards, receive automated renewal reminders, and obtain digitally verifiable permits delivered directly to their email addresses.

"The purpose of these reforms is to return control to legitimate employers, improve transparency, and eliminate unnecessary middlemen. Today, companies can process applications directly through their human resources departments without paying excessive consultancy fees," he stated.

He noted that several multinational companies operating in Nigeria had already expressed appreciation for the reforms because of the cost savings and increased transparency they provide.

Earlier, Ambassador Gautier Mignot welcomed the ongoing collaboration between the European Union and Nigeria and commended the Ministry of Interior and the Nigerian Immigration Service for the significant improvements recorded in immigration administration. He also called for further reforms to strengthen Nigeria's work permit system and enhance the country's attractiveness to foreign investors.

In his remarks, Mr. Frederik Klinke echoed the call for deeper engagement, stressing the importance of sustained dialogue and collaboration between both parties on areas of mutual interest.

The meeting underscored the commitment of the Government of Nigeria and its European partners to building a more transparent and efficient operating environment that supports investment, job creation, and stronger bilateral relations.

E-signed
Mrs Mary Ali, anipr
Head, Press and Public Relations
4th June 2026

MINISTRY OF INTERIOR

PRESS RELEASE

FG Reaffirms Commitment to Implementing Investigative Panel Report on Nigerian Correctional Centres.

The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, assured stakeholders that the report of the Investigative Panel on Alleged Corruption and Other Violations against the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) would not be shelved but would serve as the foundation for a renewed Nigerian Correctional Service.
The Minister stated this while receiving the Investigative Panel's Report on Nigerian Correctional Centres in Abuja on Wednesday, noting that the Ministry would act decisively on its recommendations.
Receiving the report, the Honourable Minister commended the panel for its diligence, professionalism, and commitment to uncovering the realities within Nigeria’s correctional facilities. He described the report as a product of painstaking work and wide consultations.

“This report will form the basis of a transformed correctional system. We will aggressively pursue implementation, establish a robust monitoring and evaluation framework, and ensure independent oversight to guarantee accountability and measurable results,” the Minister stated.
He noted that the work of the panel represented an important step in the ongoing efforts to strengthen accountability, improve operational standards and consolidate reforms within the correctional system.
Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, noted that a well-functioning correctional system benefits not only inmates but society as a whole, adding that correctional facilities should be treated as valuable national assets in the country's social and economic development architecture.
The Minister reiterated that the correctional sector reflects the values of a nation and emphasized that every Nigerian, regardless of circumstance, deserves dignity, fairness, and humane treatment. He stated that the initiative aligns with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to ensure that all Nigerians, including those in correctional custody, benefit from government policies and reforms.

Highlighting progress already recorded within the sector, the Minister disclosed that Nigeria’s custodial facilities currently have a capacity of approximately 68,496 inmates, while the inmate population stands at about 80,732. To address overcrowding, the government is constructing new correctional facilities with an additional capacity of approximately 33,000 inmates, including major projects in Abuja and Kano.
The Minister also reported significant improvements in rehabilitation outcomes, particularly in the reduction of recidivism. According to available data, repeat offenders declined from 11,616 in 2023 to 3,156 in 2024 and further to 1,392 in 2025.
He further highlighted ongoing investments in inmate education and rehabilitation programmes, including:
• 62 postgraduate students currently in custody.
• 261 undergraduate students.
• More than 1,125 inmates participating in educational programmes.
• 18 National Open University study centres operating within correctional facilities.
Thousands of inmates are also enrolled in vocational and skills acquisition programmes covering carpentry, agriculture, electrical installation, welding, tailoring, barbering, soap production, hairdressing, laundry services, and other trades designed to support successful reintegration into society.
On non-custodial measures, the Minister reported that 1,227 individuals have benefited from alternatives to incarceration, including community service, probation, restorative justice, and other non-custodial interventions.

He stressed that correctional centres must become institutions of rehabilitation, restoration, and second chances rather than places of hopelessness and discrimination.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Investigative Panel, Dr. Magdalene Ajani formally presented the report. She expressed appreciation to the Honourable Minister for his support throughout the assignment, noted that members of the panel carefully examined the issues before them and engaged relevant stakeholders in the course of their work.
Dr. Ajani expressed optimism that the report would be effectively implemented and would contribute meaningfully to ongoing reforms within the Nigerian Correctional Service.
Also speaking, the Secretary of the panel, Associate Professor Uju Agomoh, appealed for the findings of the report to be made public, noting that making the document accessible to Nigerians would further strengthen transparency and public confidence in the reform process.
The Investigative Panel on Alleged Corruption and Other Violations against the Nigerian Correctional Service was constituted to investigate allegations of misconduct within the Service and make recommendations aimed at strengthening accountability, transparency and effective service delivery.

The report was officially presented to the Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo during a ceremony attended by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, the Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Sylvester Nwakuche, members of the Investigative Panel, senior government officials, and members of the media.

In his remarks, the Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Sylvester Nwakuche welcomed the report and pledged the full cooperation of the Service in implementing the recommendations. He commended the Honourable Minister for his leadership and commitment to correctional reform and praised the Investigative Panel for conducting one of the most extensive engagements and facility assessments undertaken in recent years.
He emphasized that the Nigerian Correctional Service would work closely with the Judiciary, the Police, and other criminal justice stakeholders to ensure successful implementation of the report’s recommendations and to strengthen the effectiveness of the nation’s correctional system.
The presentation of the report marks a significant landmark in the Federal Government's ongoing efforts to reposition the Nigerian Correctional Service as a modern institution focused on rehabilitation, reintegration, accountability, and public safety.

E-signed
Mrs Mary Ali, anipr
Head, Press and Public Relations
3rd June 2026

MINISTRY OF INTERIOR

PRESS RELEASE

MINISTER OF INTERIOR CELEBRATES CREATIVITY, EXCELLENCE AND INNOVATIVE IDEAS IN PUBLIC SERVICE

The Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has called for the immediate implementation and possible commercialization of innovative ideas developed by staff of the Ministry, stressing that innovation remains a key driver of national growth and institutional transformation.

The Minister made the call during the maiden edition of the Ministry of Interior Innovation Challenge Award Ceremony and Joint Union Council (JUC) Week Celebration held in Abuja.

Addressing staff and management at the event, Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasized that innovation must move beyond concepts and discussions to practical ex*****on capable of delivering measurable impact for national development.

“We must ensure that these innovations come to fruition. Ideas are valuable only when they solve problems and improve lives. We should begin to explore possible investment opportunities and commercialization of some of these innovations,” the Minister stated.

He further urged staff of the Ministry and its agencies to remain focused and committed towards ensuring that the final year of the current administration records even greater achievements than previous years.

According to him, “Recognition of creativity is important because no society can grow without innovation. Every institution that intends to remain relevant must encourage people to think differently and develop solutions.”

The Minister commended participants in the Innovation Challenge for demonstrating creativity, initiative and dedication towards improving public service delivery.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, stated that the Innovation Challenge was introduced to encourage staff to develop practical and implementable ideas capable of improving institutional efficiency and contributing to national development.

She noted that despite the absence of recent capital releases, the Ministry has continued to prioritize staff welfare and uphold its obligations to both serving and retired officers.

According to her, retirees have continued to receive full repatriation benefits, while staff have also received their entitlements, including first 21-day allowances.

Dr. Ajani encouraged officers to continue contributing innovative ideas that would strengthen service delivery and support ongoing reforms within the Ministry and its agencies.

Speaking on behalf of organized labour, the Chairman of the Joint Union Council, Comrade Elabor Mohammed commended the Ministry’s management for prioritizing staff welfare.

He highlighted recent welfare interventions, including the provision of additional staff shuttle buses, improvements at the staff clinic, establishment of a cafeteria, and other measures aimed at enhancing workers’ wellbeing.

The Union Chairman described the relationship between management and staff unions as cordial and productive, adding that sustained cooperation would continue to promote industrial harmony within the Ministry.

The Honourable Minister was presented with an Award for Excellence by the Ministry’s Joint Union Council alongside the Permanent Secretary, some Directors, and staff of the Ministry. In addition, the outstanding participants in the Innovation Challenge were also awarded.

The event ended with renewed calls for innovation, dedication, teamwork and professionalism in support of the Ministry’s reform agenda and the Renewed Hope Agenda of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

E-signed
Mrs Mary Ali, anipr
Head, Press ad Public Relations
26th May 2026

MINISTRY OF INTERIOR

PRESS RELEASE

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT DECLARES WEDNESDAY 27TH MAY AND THURSDAY 28TH MAY, 2026 AS PUBLIC HOLIDAYS TO MARK EID UL ADHA CELEBRATION

The Federal Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has declared Wednesday, 27th May and Thursday, 28th May, 2026 as public holidays to mark the celebration of Eid ul Adha. The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

This declaration affirms the Federal Government's profound respect for the faith and spiritual heritage of millions of Nigerian Muslims who join the global Islamic community in observing this sacred occasion.

The Minister conveys the warm felicitations of the Federal Government to all Muslim faithful in Nigeria and throughout the Diaspora. Eid ul Adha is a festival of deep spiritual significance, grounded in the values of sacrifice, obedience to God, and compassion for one's fellow man.

The Federal Government urges all Nigerians to use this period for prayer and sober reflection, asking for divine guidance upon the country as it continues its pursuit of peace, security, and prosperity for every citizen.

It is in the spirit of brotherhood, shared humanity, and national unity that the Federal Government wishes all Muslims a peaceful, blessed, and joyous celebration.

E-Signed
Dr. Magdalene Ajani
Permanent Secretary
25th May 2026

MINISTRY OF INTERIOR

PRESS RELEASE

Nigeria, Poland Deepen Bilateral Cooperation in Security, Trade, Technology and Economic Development

The Honourable Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo today hosted the Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Poland, Krzysztof Gawkowski, who came with Ambassador Michal Cygan and his team, to the Ministry's office in Abuja. They both confirmed their commitment to strengthening diplomatic, economic, and institutional cooperation.

Welcoming the delegation, the Honourable Minister described the visit as a significant step in advancing relations between Nigeria and Poland, emphasizing that the engagement marks the beginning of a stronger and more strategic partnership between both nations.

The Minister noted Nigeria's commitment to collaboration, learning from each other, and shared development. He added that both nations have unique strengths they can use to leveraged to address common problems and open up new possibilities.

“This visit isn't just another diplomatic meeting,” the Minister said. “It's building the foundation for a sustainable and mutually beneficial relationship between Nigeria and Poland.”

Discussions focused on expanding cooperation in key sectors including border management, internal security systems, technology transfer, cybersecurity, innovation, and institutional capacity development. The Minister expressed interest in learning from Poland’s expertise and exploring opportunities for technical partnerships and investment.

Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo also recognized the ongoing diplomatic talks and welcomed plans for him to visit Poland soon. That trip should open up more conversations with Polish government bodies and business leaders who work in security and internal affairs.

The Minister confirmed Nigeria is ready for international investments and key partnerships. He spoke about recent economic changes the Nigerian government has made, such as unifying exchange rates, trying to control inflation, and taking away fuel subsidies. These changes are meant to reshape the economy and make investors feel more confident.

“We look forward to formalising our cooperation through official agreements and building practical solutions that will benefit both countries,” he added.

Speaking earlier, the Deputy Prime Minister expressed appreciation for the warm reception and commended the growing momentum in Polish–Nigerian relations.

He described Nigeria as a nation with considerable economic, demographic, and technological potential and identified it as a strategic partner for long-term cooperation.

The Deputy Prime Minister noted that Poland is ready to contribute through its expertise in innovation, digitalisation, infrastructure development, and advanced technologies.

He further extended a formal invitation to the Honourable Minister to visit Poland in the near future, expressing optimism that continued engagement would open new opportunities for collaboration between government institutions and private sector stakeholders in both countries.

He also recognized the ongoing changes and improvements in Nigeria's internal security, noting that these are areas where there's great potential for working together in the future.

The meeting marks another important step in strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between Nigeria and Poland and reflects the shared commitment of both countries to building a productive and enduring partnership.

E-Signed
Mrs Mary Ali, anipr
Head, Press and Public Relations
21st May 2026

MINISTRY OF INTERIOR

PRESS RELEASE

FG REITERATES COMMITMENT TO REFORMS, RESULTS-DRIVEN GOVERNANCE IN PUBLIC SERVICE

The Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to transformative reforms aimed at enhancing efficiency, strengthening internal security, and delivering measurable results across public institutions.

Speaking at a high-level session of the International Civil Service Conference themed “Reforms, Resilience and Results,” the Minister emphasised that excessive bureaucracy and redundant procedures remain significant barriers to progress in the public sector. He noted that “complexity is the enemy of progress,” stressing the urgent need to simplify processes in order to unlock innovation and improve service delivery outcomes for Nigerians.

Dr. Tunji-Ojo stated that in the 21st century, “business as usual has no place in public service,” highlighting the growing expectation of citizens for tangible results rather than explanations. According to him, the trust reposed in public officials must be matched with performance, accountability, and a clear commitment to reform.

Addressing stakeholders, including members of the Federal Executive Council, heads of agencies, members of the diplomatic corps, and industry leaders, the Minister acknowledged the critical role of collaboration in driving sustainable change. He particularly commended the dedication and professionalism of civil servants in the Ministry of Interior, describing them as instrumental to the successes recorded so far.

Speaking on the conference theme, Dr. Tunji-Ojo outlined the Ministry’s reform approach, noting that effective reform begins with a clear understanding of existing challenges. He explained that meaningful reforms require answering three fundamental questions: identifying “what is” — the current situation; defining “what ought to be” — the desired state; and determining “how” to transition between both through structured interventions.

The Minister observed that many reform efforts fail due to poor problem identification, which often results in misplaced solutions.

“You cannot solve a problem you do not understand,” he stated, adding that data-driven analysis and strategic thinking remain essential for meaningful progress in internal security and governance.

He further called for a paradigm shift in governance, urging public servants to move away from emotional attachment to outdated systems and embrace innovation, knowledge, and practical understanding as tools for reform.

Reiterating the Ministry’s mandate in safeguarding Nigeria’s internal security architecture, Dr. Tunji-Ojo assured Nigerians of the Ministry’s continued efforts to strengthen institutional capacity, improve operational efficiency, and deliver impactful results aligned with national priorities.

The event also featured contributions from key stakeholders and was moderated by renowned media professional Stephanie Bussari.

E-Signed
Mrs Mary Ali, anipr
Head, Press and Public Relations
20th May 2026