The Federal Government of Nigeria has achieved significant milestones in public service delivery under the leadership of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. Since assuming office in August 2023, the Ministry has cleared over 200,000 unprocessed passport applications and settled ₦28 billion in legacy debts without requiring additional government funding.
At the Access Bank Guest Lecture Series in Lagos, themed “Dare to Dream, Dare to Innovate,” Minister Tunji-Ojo attributed these accomplishments to strategic planning, technological innovation, and financial prudence. Key initiatives include the launch of e-visa platforms, contactless passport renewals for Nigerians abroad, advanced passenger tracking systems, and the commissioning of a Tier-4 data center to support 24/7 immigration services.
Addressing the state of Nigeria’s correctional facilities, the Minister highlighted that over 4,000 inmates remain incarcerated due to their inability to pay fines as low as ₦50,000. He emphasized the moral imperative of reforming a system that disproportionately penalizes poverty. The Ministry is collaborating with private donors to facilitate the release of non-violent offenders and is implementing reforms, including digital case tracking, vocational training programs, and partnerships aimed at improving living conditions within correctional facilities.
Minister Tunji-Ojo’s proactive approach to governance, emphasizing foresight and innovation, has garnered praise from stakeholders. Access Holdings Chairman, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, commended the Minister’s leadership, stating, “Innovation is not about big budgets; it is about big thinking.”
