Tinubu’s Bold Move: Why He’s Keeping Nigeria’s Immigration Boss in Power

By Achimi muktar

ABUJA – In a strategic decision aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s immigration system, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended the tenure of Mrs. Kemi Nanna Nandap as Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), keeping her in office until December 31, 2026.

The announcement, made on Monday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, underscores Tinubu’s confidence in Nandap’s leadership. Originally appointed on March 1, 2024, her tenure was set to expire on August 31, 2025. However, her extension signals the administration’s commitment to continuity in tackling border security and migration challenges.

Why Tinubu is Keeping Nandap in Charge

Since assuming office, Nandap has driven major reforms in border management, immigration process modernization, and national security improvements. Her tenure has seen increased efforts to curb illegal migration, enhance passport processing efficiency, and strengthen Nigeria’s border control mechanisms.

President Tinubu acknowledged her contributions and charged her with aligning her efforts with his Renewed Hope Agenda, a policy framework designed to enhance national security and economic stability.

What This Means for Nigerians

With this extension, Nandap is expected to accelerate key immigration reforms, improve service delivery, and tighten border security to combat transnational crimes. Her leadership will also play a crucial role in advancing Nigeria’s digital transformation of immigration processes, making travel and residency applications smoother for citizens and expatriates alike.

Reaffirming his commitment to national security, Tinubu assured continued support for the Nigeria Immigration Service to ensure safe and legal migration while keeping Nigeria’s borders secure.

As the NIS embarks on another phase of reform under Nandap’s leadership, all eyes will be on how she navigates the evolving challenges of immigration management in Africa’s largest economy.