NECA Commends Ministry of Interior for Launching AI Immigration Monitoring System
The Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has applauded the Honourable Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and the leadership of the Federal Ministry of Interior for their unwavering dedication to enhancing Nigeria’s homeland security infrastructure. NECA commended the ongoing reforms aimed at improving border governance, internal security coordination, and institutional accountability within the agencies under the Ministry.
The association specifically highlighted the recent announcement of the deployment of an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven system designed to monitor travelers entering Nigeria and identify visa overstays. This development marks a significant stride towards modernizing Nigeria’s migration management framework and strengthening the country’s capacity to combat irregular migration.
Reacting to this progress, Mr. Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, Director-General of NECA, expressed enthusiasm about the Ministry’s adoption of advanced technological tools to reinforce immigration monitoring and bolster national security. Speaking in Lagos, he stated, **“The deployment of Artificial Intelligence to support immigration monitoring and track visa overstays is a commendable step that reflects a forward-looking approach to homeland security. In an era where migration patterns and cross-border mobility have become increasingly complex, the use of data-driven systems is essential for improving oversight, strengthening border management, and ensuring compliance with immigration regulations.”
Mr. Oyerinde emphasized that the ability of Nigeria’s security agencies to utilize integrated digital systems capable of analyzing travel records and detecting violations will greatly enhance enforcement and governance. **“A modern immigration system must be supported by reliable data, intelligent monitoring platforms, and efficient coordination among relevant agencies. The introduction of AI-enabled monitoring tools will strengthen the capacity of our institutions to detect irregular migration, enforce visa compliance, and protect the integrity of Nigeria’s borders.”
He further noted that strengthening migration management not only enhances national security but also plays a vital role in maintaining investor confidence and Nigeria’s credibility on the global stage. **“Countries with transparent, efficient, and technology-driven border management systems are better positioned to attract legitimate business, international partnerships, and responsible investment. For the organized private sector, a secure and well-regulated environment remains essential for economic stability and sustainable enterprise growth.”
NECA’s DG also acknowledged the broader reform initiatives currently underway across agencies under the Ministry of Interior, particularly the repositioning of the Nigeria Immigration Service into a more technology-enabled organization capable of supporting both security and international mobility. He highlighted the importance of collaboration between security agencies and data management institutions like the National Identity Management Commission in creating an integrated and reliable national data architecture for security planning, immigration governance, and public service delivery.
He urged the Ministry to sustain the current reform momentum and expand the deployment of modern technologies across border security, immigration, and identity management agencies. **“NECA is committed to supporting government efforts aimed at strengthening national security, improving institutional efficiency, and fostering a stable environment conducive to business and investment in Nigeria.”