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“E-Visa, e-CERPAC Regime: Transparency Group Accuses Immigration Service of Poor Stakeholder Engagement”
A transparency group, the Coalition for Ethical Standard Accountability and Good Governance(ESAGG) has tackled the Nigerian Immigration Service and the Ministry of Interior over alleged lack of due consultations of relevant stakeholders before the commencement of the e-Visa and e- CERPAC Regime.
According to the group, despite the commendable fact that these digital platforms aim to enhance transparency, speed up processing, and simplify immigration for expatriates entering Nigeria, all society approach should have been adopted with all stakeholders engagement, buy-in of foreign entities,the investment drivers of the nations economy and the International Communities carried along in the new policies.
The National Coordinator of the group, Comrade Ebuka Nwachukwu. , in a statement made available to newsmen via electronic mail, noted that while acknowledging the strides taking by both the Nigeria Immigration Service and the Ministry of Interior,it is pertinent to echo this fact that migration to digital platform is done hand in hand with the analogue facility being issued side by side for a reasonable period and not a rush period.
According to the Statement, “The e-Visa and e- CERPAC Regime: Need for Detail Awareness Campaign and All Stakeholders Engagement;The Nigeria Immigration Service under the watch of the Ministry of Interior must understand that migration from an existing service or product to another in this digital age goes beyond a jingle on a television or advert placement on select Newspapers.”
“it is an all society approach,all stakeholders engagement and buy-in of foreign entities,the investment drivers of the nations economy,the International Communities,vital organs of government that has direct dealings with Immigration related matters and most importantly the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.”
“While acknowledging the strides taking by both the Nigeria Immigration Service and the Ministry of Interior,it is pertinent to echo this fact that migration to digital platform is done hand in hand with the analogue facility being issued side by side for a reasonable period and not a rush period.”
“The Amnesty period is too short for companies and organizations to start losing Millions expended for an existing facility and to start purchasing new facilities,in a nation trying to attract investors and to compete with other nations within the same region and continent, whose Immigration Policies is attracting huge number of investors and businesses to their country,countries like Ghana, Rwanda, Algeria, Morocco,South Africa,Tanzania,Benin Republic,Kenya to mention but a few,where every investment opportunity from Hospitality,Tourism,Ports activities,Sports,AI and Digital Technology, Mining are used to attract investors with flexible secured Visas and Residence Card that is also digital in nature”
“The Ministry of Interior must be mindful of the fact that she can not be the driver and passenger at the same time,the Ministry must allow the Nigeria Immigration Service to operate as the enforcement agency and service provider for which it’s operative were trained and do the needful to do a comprehensive Awareness Campaign and engage with all stakeholders,else there will be a system collapse and a backlash to Nigerian investors and Citizens in reciprocity by other countries as a response to the current rush in the name of digitization of a system.
” There is need for the Ministry of Interior and the Nigeria Immigration Service to engage thoroughly with all stakeholders not select group and to do an exhaustive Awareness Campaign to carry along beneficiaries of the services and the organisations paying the fees charged.”
“As concern citizens,the Ministry of Interior and the Nigeria Immigration Service must realize that the system E-Visa and e- CERPAC was issued abinitio on a platform,and on agreed terms,conditions to avoid system breakdown and failure”
“There must be smooth transition,not a quick fix arrangement as obtained,a lot was committed to the production system brought in by the organisations issuing the former facility,there must be a winding process that will be healthy to both the Nigeria Immigration Service and their service providers in all the service windows,be it Passport where the Nigeria Immigration Service is opting for a centralized production,the new e- Visa and e- CERPAC,”
“These are technical services driven by technology and expertise,there is need for smooth technology transfer and let us not forget the Build,Operate and Transfer policy, the new services will be effective with proper handing over and transfer.”
“Above all, there is need for the Ministry of Interior and the Nigeria Immigration Service to allow a lawful transition,and detail brief by all parties concern which will be sanctioned by all and for the good of the nation.”
The group however called on the Federal Government and relevant agencies for the extension of the amnesty period to give room for thorough Awareness Campaign, Stakeholders Meeting and buy-in of the end users through public hearing and public engagements.
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Army Supply and Transport Corps Reviews Operations, Targets Improved Service Delivery
The Commander, Nigerian Army Corps of Supply and Transport (CCST), Maj.-Gen. Nansak Danjuma Shagaya, has commenced a two-day conference aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness and service delivery in support of Nigerian Army missions.
The conference, with the theme “Optimising ST Capabilities Towards Providing Effective Service Delivery to Nigerian Army Operations in All Missions,” began on Tuesday at the Muhammadu Buhari Auditorium, Nigerian Army School of Supply and Transport (NASST), Benin City, Edo State.
Shagaya said the conference was designed to review the Corps’ performance in ongoing military operations and provide a platform for strategic reflection, institutional learning, and collective problem-solving.
He noted that the forum would enable commanders to exchange ideas, assess operational realities, evaluate emerging challenges, and develop strategies to strengthen logistics support in a dynamic security environment.
“The contemporary operational landscape in which the Nigerian Army operates is increasingly complex and multidimensional,” he said.
“Modern military operations are characterised by fluid threat dynamics, technological evolution, and heightened demands on operational sustainability. In such an environment, the role of logistics has become even more critical.”
The CCST added that the conference would facilitate frank and professional engagement among senior officers to review operational commitments, examine institutional challenges, and explore innovative approaches to improve efficiency.
He urged participants to approach discussions with professionalism and a shared commitment to strengthening the Corps’ effectiveness.
Earlier, the Commandant of NASST, Maj.-Gen. Adebayo Olatunde Adegbite, said the conference would provide an avenue for interaction between the Corps Commander, field commanders, and senior officers on achieving the Nigerian Army’s mission.
Adegbite said the engagement aligns with the Corps’ command philosophy of developing a highly proficient Supply and Transport Corps capable of efficiently supporting the Army in fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities.
He added that the conference would promote knowledge sharing, address operational challenges, and enhance service delivery.
Highlights of the event include the commissioning of a Soldiers’ Dining Hall, a remodeled NASST Driving Simulation Centre, the unveiling of Col. I. Taiwo Crescent, and a group photograph.
The conference will also feature a Pulling-Out Ceremony and Gala Night in honour of retired generals of the Corps on March 26.
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NUJ FCT Chairman, Grace Ike, Hailed as Transformative Leader on Birthday
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, Grace Ike, has been described as a transformative leader in the media profession as she marks her birthday.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, a former President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Evelyn Onyilo, commended Ike for breaking barriers and redefining leadership within the union.
Onyilo noted that Ike made history as the first female chairman of the NUJ FCT Council in over four decades, describing her emergence as a significant milestone for women in journalism.
She said Ike’s tenure had been marked by remarkable achievements, particularly in infrastructural development and the welfare of members, adding that her leadership had also strengthened participation and unity within the union.
“Her tenure has witnessed unprecedented development and effective mobilisation of members to actively participate in the affairs of the union, making her a foremost transformative leader of our era,” Onyilo said.
The publisher of Phenomenal People Magazine further described Ike as a media icon of immense value, praying for greater accomplishments, good health, and continued success in her leadership journey.
Onyilo congratulated Ike on her birthday and wished her many more years of impactful service.
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COAS Salutes Troops’ Sacrifice, Hosts Special Sallah Luncheon in Edo
he Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Saturday, March 21, 2026, hosted a special Sallah luncheon for troops of the Forward Operations Base (FOB) Sobe in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State as part of activities marking the Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
Speaking at the event, the COAS reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to improving troop welfare and boosting morale through strategic initiatives. He urged the soldiers to remain resolute in their duty to defend the nation’s peace, unity, and territorial integrity.
Represented by the Commander, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun, the Army Chief commended the troops for their resilience and professionalism despite operating under challenging conditions. He noted that their sacrifices and dedication embody the true spirit of the Nigerian soldier.
“They serve in difficult and often demanding environments, far from the comfort of their homes, yet remain steadfast in loyalty and professionalism.
Their endurance, sacrifice, and courage represent the true spirit of the Nigerian soldier,” he said, while praying for their safety and success in ongoing operations.
The COAS also lauded the continued collaboration between the Nigerian Army and other security and intelligence agencies, describing inter-agency synergy as critical to sustaining operational success and national stability.
He further expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his unwavering support and commitment to the welfare and operational effectiveness of the military, noting that the President’s leadership remains a strong source of motivation for the Armed Forces.
In his welcome address, the Commander, FOB Sobe, Lieutenant Colonel Stanley Agboro, described the COAS luncheon as a significant annual tradition held during major festive periods, including Eid-el-Fitr, Eid-el-Kabir, Easter, and Christmas.
He said the initiative is aimed at boosting troop morale, recognising their sacrifices, honouring fallen heroes, and strengthening camaraderie within the ranks.
Agboro appreciated the Brigade Commander and his entourage for visiting the base to celebrate with the troops. He also acknowledged the presence of the Vice Chairman of Owan West Local Government Area, Mr Dele Aleburu, who represented the council chairperson, Madam Joy Ohonyon, as well as the traditional ruler of Sobe, HRH Anthony Ero Aleburu I, and heads of other security agencies in the area.
The event featured a luncheon, cultural dance performances, comedy presentations, and morale-boosting songs by the troops.
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