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Ministry of Interior generated over N6.2 bn revenue last year, says Minister

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Ministry of Interior generated over N6.2 bn revenue last year, says Minister


…1,836,533 Passports Issued, 828 foreigners repatriated, 137 victims of trafficking intercepted

By: Michael Mike

Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has revealed that his ministry was able to contribute over N6 billion into the nation’s revenue during the 2024 fiscal year.

The minister made this disclosure during a media chat on the achievements of his minister during last year.

Tunji-Ojo who specifically gave N6,034,457,000 as the total revenue made with expatriate quota alone accruing about N3,220,035,000, marriages contributed N2,409,282,000 billion; citizenship and places of worship had N392,790,000 billion and N12,350,000 million respectively.

He noted that the increase was over 150 per cent from the previous year.

He acknowledged that the blockage and stoppage of revenue leakages through automation of processes was responsible for the lift, adding that now foreign applicants who applied for Nigerian citizenship are genuinely scrutinised before being granted their application.

He said: “The ministry inaugurated Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) Champions/Reform Team who have successfully worked with Ease of Doing Business Secretariat (EBES) to harmonise and update records on the National Action Plan (NAP 7.0) reform initiatives which include: enforce service level agreement (SLA) for business permit application; enforce timeline for business permit application; enforce SLA timeline for expatriate quota (EQ) applications; enforce timeline for EQ applications.”

He added that the ministry has
commenced full operations in the newly-established Federal Marriage Registries in the following states: Jalingo, Taraba State; Akure, Ondo State; Ibadan, Oyo State; Makurdi, Benue State; Asaba, Delta State and Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

The minister said the ministry is currently implementing the Performance Management System (PMS) which is one of the six pillars of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (FCSSIP2021-2025)—–a strategy that drives the first medium term plan, 2021-2025 of the Nigeria Agenda 2050 holistic reforms of the civil service.

“The PMS is a framework used to evaluate, manage and improve the employee performance in alignment with the National Service and mandate while innovating means and measures to achieving ministry’s mandate also” he explained.

The agencies under the Ministry of interior include, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Fire Service (NFS), Nigeria Immigration Service and National Identification Management Commission (NIMC) were involved in restructuring with
about 8,283 men and officers recruited into the NIS and the NSCDC in 2023, while 2,500 officers were recruited into the FFS in 2024.

The Minister said: “A key part of the ministry that has to do with the public is the department we call C and B. That is, Citizenship and Business. One of the first things we realised about the department is that the revenue generated wasn’t up to what is expected. So, the first thing we have to do is to create a process of optimising and automising it.”

The minister revealed that the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has issued 1,836,533 passports and repatriated 828 foreigners between January and December 2024.

Tunji-Ojo nited that other achievements recorded in the same period included the clearance of a backlog of over 200,000 passport application within three weeks in year 2024

“Then, of course, combating irregular migration is a major issue. In the last one year, 137 victims of trafficking were intercepted in 2024 and 42 objects of struggling, of migrants were also intercepted.

“828 foreigners were repatriated in 2024 by the Nigerian Immigration Service.

“Of course, when we came on board, we met a backlog of over 200,000 passports, you know, and in record time, in less than three weeks, we were able to clear that.

“In 2024, the Nigeria Immigration Service also issued 1,836,533,”he said.

In the realm of border security, the minister announced the completion of the first phase of the e-border solution, covering 40 per cent of the nation’s borders.

Tunji-Ojo said that secured borders ensure a safe nation adding that newly acquired vehicles and e-gates have been deployed to improve border management.

He also spoke about innovations in visa processing, including the establishment of a Visa Approval Center in Abuja and the integration of Interpol’s database for profiling applicants.

“This ensures only eligible individuals gain entry into Nigeria while strengthening national security,” he said.

The minister also spoke about reforms in granting Nigerian citizenship, which now involved a rigorous verification process in collaboration with security agencies.

“Becoming a Nigerian citizen today is a more transparent and technology-driven process. This ensures integrity without creating unnecessary bureaucracy,” he maintained..

Looking ahead, Tunji-Ojo pledged continued reforms, including improving operational efficiency and leveraging technology to meet national security and administrative goals.

“We are not yet where we want to be, but progress has been made, and we remain committed to delivering better services to Nigerians.

Tunji-Ojo said that the President, Bola Tinubu’s vision of a secure, innovative, and efficient system was being realised through these reforms. Nigerians deserve a system that works for them.

The interior minister at the parley provided a detailed account of accomplishments across the ministry and all its six agencies.

Ministry of Interior generated over N6.2 bn revenue last year, says Minister

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Marwa describes Prof. Jubril Aminu an epitome of knowledge

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Marwa describes Prof. Jubril Aminu an epitome of knowledge

By: Michael Mike

Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd) has described former Minister of Education, Prof JubrilAminu as an epitome of knowledge who made positive impacts in medicine, education, foreign policy, politics, oil industry, and all other sectors where he served Nigeria at different times.

Marwa, in a statement on Friday, said the death of Aminu on Thursday 5th June “is a monumental loss that leaves a multitude of people grief-stricken in Nigeria and outside the shores of this country.”

He said: “Even at 85, we would have loved to see him live much longer, for many more years, so that Nigeria can continue to benefit from his depth of knowledge and wealth of experience that cuts across critical sectors of human development.”

Marwa said the outpour of tributes in the past 24 hours is an indication of Prof Aminu’s far-reaching influence and impact across various spheres of life, all of which further exacerbated the sense of loss for Nigerians.

He added that: “Yet, in our state of bereavement, we cannot but celebrate the life and times of an extraordinary man, an epitome of knowledge who, until he passed on, was and is still one of Nigeria’s finest examples in medicine and academics, where he made lasting impacts.”

The NDLEA boss said apart from coming from the same state with the late Senator, who once represented Adamawa Central in the National Assembly, he has good memories of the various times and stages their paths crossed in the service of the nation.

Marwa describes Prof. Jubril Aminu an epitome of knowledge

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Bingham University Celebrates World Environmental Day with Key Taking on Plastic Pollution, Tree Planting 

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Bingham University Celebrates World Environmental Day with Key Taking on Plastic Pollution, Tree Planting 

By: Our Reporter

Bingham University, Karu, has joined the rest of the world to celebrate this year’s World Environmental Day with sustained advocacy on plastic pollution and key takeaways from a powerful presentation on the need for communities to plant more trees for climate change resilience. 

In his presentation titled “Tree Planting: A Sustainable Solution for Climate Resilience,” Dr. James Bwala of the Faculty of Communications and Media Studies called for a nationwide awakening to the power of trees as Nigeria—and the world—faces worsening climate challenges.

Dr. Bwala said, “Tree planting is widely recognized as a vital strategy for environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation. It serves multiple ecological functions, including carbon sequestration, biodiversity restoration, and the improvement of urban environments.”

Drawing from world-leading researchers to back his presentations, Dr. Bwala explained that while trees contribute substantially to human well-being by improving air quality, reducing urban heat islands, and fostering social cohesion in communities (Turner-Skoff, 2019). Their role extends beyond ecological benefits to encompass social and economic dimensions that align with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

He added that “Responsible tree planting practices—favoring native species and involving local communities—are critical for maximizing these benefits while minimizing potential ecological disruptions (Baghdjian, 2024). Thus, tree planting represents a multifaceted approach crucial for advancing both environmental health and societal resilience.”

Speaking on why the communities need to plant more trees, he observed issues in global temperature rise and an increase in environmental challenges, stating that the importance of trees has become more apparent. “Trees provide numerous benefits, ranging from improving air quality to supporting biodiversity, making them vital to our fight against climate change. Tree planting is a fundamental strategy for safeguarding the environment due to its multifaceted benefits in climate regulation, biodiversity support, and community well-being. 

“Trees act as carbon sinks by absorbing atmospheric carbon dioxide, thereby mitigating climate change impacts (Baghdjian, 2024). However, the effectiveness of tree planting hinges on responsible practices such as using native species and involving local communities to avoid ecological harm and ensure sustainability (Baghdjian, 2024). Without such precautions, reforestation efforts may inadvertently disrupt hydrological cycles or reduce biodiversity through biotic homogenization (Adams et al., 2023).” Dr. Bwala said. 

He advocated that, beyond carbon sequestration, trees contribute significantly to creating livable and sustainable communities. “Urban tree planting reduces air pollution, lowers temperatures, manages stormwater runoff, and enhances social cohesion by promoting physical activity and mental health (Turner-Skoff, 2019). These benefits align with global environmental goals like the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), underscoring the broader societal value of investing in tree-planting initiatives.

“Integrating tree planting with broader landscape restoration efforts can enhance ecosystem resilience and provide a buffer against extreme weather events, supporting both natural habitats and human communities. In addition, fostering partnerships between governments, NGOs, and the private sector can amplify the positive impact of tree-planting initiatives by pooling resources and expertise to achieve shared environmental objectives. One thing I observed around Abuja and its environs is that the activities of felling trees impacted so hugely on the health of most communities. By emphasizing education and awareness, communities can better understand the role of trees in environmental health, fostering a culture of stewardship that supports long-term ecological balance.” He stressed. 

He further explained that there is a need to continue educating the people as well as creating awareness on tree planting. “Incorporating green spaces into urban areas not only helps mitigate the urban heat island effect but also enhances air quality and provides recreational opportunities for city dwellers, thereby contributing to overall well-being and sustainability of the environment.”

Bingham University Celebrates World Environmental Day with Key Taking on Plastic Pollution, Tree Planting 

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Eid-el-Kabir: Don’t Overfill Oil Pan While Cooking Sallah Meals Fire Boss Warns

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Eid-el-Kabir: Don’t Overfill Oil Pan While Cooking Sallah Meals Fire Boss Warns

By: Michael Mike

The Controller General, Federal Fire Service (FFS), Engr. Abdulganiyu Jaji has warned Muslim Faithful and the general public as the celebrate the Eid-el-Kabir festival not to overfill their cooking pans with oil while cooking Sallah meals so as to prevent fire disaster.

Jaji, in a statement he personally signed on Thursday, cautioned celebrants, especially Muslim women traditionally in charge of festive meals—to ensure cooking oil never exceeds one-third of the pan to avoid kitchen fires.

He said: “Cooking is at the heart of our Sallah celebrations, but it’s also where most accidental home fires begin. During festivals like Eid al-Adha, the risks increase as families prepare larger meals at different hours of the day.”

The fire chief, while congratulating Muslims nationwide on the festive occasion, however urged everyone to keep safety front and center.

He encouraged homes to be equipped with fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and smoke detectors, and reminded Nigerians to turn off stoves and electrical appliances before stepping out.

He advised that roasting of animals, a cherished Sallah tradition, should be done in open spaces, emphasizing that gas cylinders must be stored outside the kitchen at all times, warning parents to keep children away from open flames or matches.

The CG didn’t stop at household warnings. He also addressed potential road and water travel hazards associated with the holiday season. Tanker and trailer drivers were advised to reduce speed and obey traffic rules to help prevent unnecessary bloodshed on the roads.

He said for those traveling by water, boat operators should be cautious of water current levels and to avoid overloading vessels, which is common causes of fatal accidents during busy holiday seasons.

Jaji said: “We are ready to respond at any time, but what we truly want is for Nigerians to stay safe and avoid emergencies altogether.”

The Fire Service, he assured, will remain fully operational throughout the holiday, with personnel on high alert and rapid response plans in place.

He urged Nigerians to report any fire outbreak or emergency to the nearest fire station or via designated emergency hotlines without delay.

He said that: “This celebration is about peace, unity, and gratitude. Let’s keep it that way, free of fire incidents and full of joy.”

Eid-el-Kabir: Don’t Overfill Oil Pan While Cooking Sallah Meals Fire Boss Warns

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