ICPC recommends technology in fight against alleged corruption in Nigeria Immigration Service

The ICPC expressed concern over alleged recruitment fraud, unethical practices in passport processing, and misconduct in port operations, within the NIS operations.

This was disclosed by the ICPC  in a statement on Friday, highlighting its suggestions and recommendations at the two-day nationwide sensitization campaign held at the NIS Headquarters in Abuja, themed “Increased Digitization and Consolidated Innovations for Efficient and Transparent Services”. 

Naijaonpoint previously reported that the Comptroller General of the NIS, Kemi Nandap, had at the event, reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to combating corruption and improving service delivery through digital transformation.

She stated this on Thursday, disclosing that the agency is leveraging innovative technologies such as the Contactless Passport Application System and the soon-to-be-launched e-Visa platform to enhance efficiency, reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks, and curb corrupt practices.

Speaking at the ceremony, the ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN—represented by the Commission’s Spokesperson, Mr. Demola Bakare, —highlighted “key areas of concern, including recruitment fraud, unethical practices in passport processing, and misconduct in port operations.” 

The ICPC recommended “introducing an official administrative cost on passport applications to curb illegal facilitation fees while improving staff welfare.” 

“The ultimate goal of any anti-corruption initiative is to ensure effective public service delivery.” 

“Unless citizens begin to experience meaningful, positive changes in their daily interactions with public institutions, it will be difficult to gain their full support for anti-corruption reforms.”, he stressed.

He stressed that the effective use of Anti-Corruption Technology (ACT) will enhance citizens’ welfare and contribute to achieving national goals of good governance.

At the event, the NIS DG highlighted several innovations being implemented by the NIS, to minimize corruption and restore public confidence.

The initiative, designed to simplify and modernize the passport renewal process, allows Nigerians to apply for passport renewals online, reducing the need for in-person visits to NIS offices.

According to the NIS, with this contactless system, individuals would be able to apply to renew their international passports from the comfort of their homes without having to visit any NIS office.