Immigration confirms Bobrisky’s Arrest at Seme Border

The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has confirmed the arrest of social media personality, Idris Okuneye Olanrewaju, (aka Bobrisky) at the Seme border while attempting to flee Nigeria. Bobrisky was apprehended on Sunday night as he tried to exit the country for the Benin Republic. In a statement on its official X page, the NIS emphasized its commitment to border security, stating, “Okuneye Idris is a person of interest due to recent public concerns. Inspiration for the arrest follows allegations made by social media activist Martins Otse (aka VeryDarkMan) that Bobrisky was trying to evade legal issues related to a bribery scandal involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Nigeria Immigration information reveal that Bobrisky is currently undergoing interrogation and will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action.” The Crossdresser got himself embroiled in faceoffs against the law following abuse of the naira at a [ub;ic event, incarceration and massive outbursts about bribing the Nigerian custodial authorities and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). These issues were too nuch for him to handle as he had been reported to be contemplating suicide. This decision to flee Nigeria may have been his last contemplations.

Demand for Investment Migration in Nigeria Skyrockets by Over 1000%, Reveals Henley and Partners

Henley and Partners, a global leader in residence and citizenship by investment, has reported a staggering 1000% increase in demand for their services in Nigeria over the past three years. This was disclosed during the 2024 Investment Migration West Africa Roadshow, held recently in Abuja, where many Nigerians were introduced to programs that promise greater global mobility, enhanced living standards, and improved business prospects abroad. Speaking at the event, Stuart Wakeling, Managing Partner for the UK at Henley and Partners, emphasized that more Nigerians are seeking “Plan B” alternatives in light of global uncertainties. “Our services aren’t just about helping people move abroad,” Wakeling said. “It’s about providing security, better opportunities for families, and access to top-tier education and healthcare.” Wakeling noted that the increase in demand for alternative or additional residence and citizenship reflects Nigerians’ desire to diversify their options and secure a stable future. “We’ve seen a massive surge in interest from Nigerians eager to live, work, and travel freely across the world, unencumbered by visa restrictions and limited opportunities,” he explained. He emphasized that the goal is not merely to leave Nigeria but to broaden one’s horizons. “Having an alternative citizenship or residency means increased mobility, business opportunities, and access to world-class healthcare and education systems,” Wakeling added. At the roadshow, various popular investment migration programs were highlighted, including the Portugal Golden Residence Permit, Greece Golden Visa Program, and Spain Residence by Investment Program. These initiatives allow individuals to obtain residency or citizenship by making significant investments in real estate or businesses. For many Nigerians, these programs are pathways to a better quality of life and a more secure future for their families. Wakeling also stressed the growing need for a “Plan B” as uncertainties continue to affect Nigerians. “We can’t choose where we are born—it’s a passport lottery,” he said, explaining that while some people are blessed by their place of birth, for others, their nationality can limit their opportunities or even put them in danger. Henley and Partners offers Nigerians the chance to maintain their Nigerian identity while gaining the advantages of an additional residence or citizenship. “People want options without having to give up being Nigerian,” Wakeling noted. “This is where we come in, helping individuals gain an alternative status in the world’s leading jurisdictions.” Henley and Partners has cemented its position as a global leader in the investment migration industry, with over 50 offices worldwide and more than 400 staff. The firm offers access to over 45 residence and citizenship programs, the largest selection available globally. Wakeling remarked, “We are growing because, in today’s fractured world, having a ‘Plan B’ and greater global mobility through an alternative citizenship or residency is increasingly essential.” The investment migration industry is also evolving, with rising costs and changing entry requirements in Europe and the Caribbean. Wakeling highlighted some of these shifts: “This year, costs increased significantly in the Caribbean, Portugal eliminated its real estate entry point, and countries like Ireland and Montenegro have closed their programs.” Given the shifting landscape, Wakeling urged Nigerians interested in these programs to stay informed and act quickly. “The demand for these programs is only increasing, and Nigerians should seize the opportunities while they’re available,” he advised. Another key speaker at the event, Carlo Paguio, Director of Sales and Strategy Partnerships at Hotel 101, underscored the importance of selecting the right investment vehicle when pursuing residency or citizenship through investment. He said that Hotel 101’s real estate projects provide a reliable investment opportunity for Nigerians looking to gain residency. For many Nigerians, investment migration might seem like an unattainable dream, but the roadshow demonstrated that it is becoming more accessible than ever before. These programs not only provide paths to residency or citizenship but also offer the chance to invest in burgeoning economies and secure a stable future. The advantages of these programs are manifold: access to world-class healthcare and education, improved living standards, and the ability to travel visa-free to numerous countries. Most importantly, these programs provide Nigerians with a way to ensure a safe, stable, and prosperous future for their families. Henley and Partners is dedicated to offering flexible solutions tailored to meet the needs of its clients. Whether through the Portuguese Golden Visa or Caribbean citizenship programs, Nigerians now have multiple options to secure their future. As interest in investment migration continues to rise, Henley and Partners is leading the way, helping Nigerians take advantage of these opportunities to enhance their global mobility and financial security. For Nigerians eager to explore their options and secure a better future, Wakeling assured, “If you are interested in what we do, rest assured—you are in good company.”

FG Announces Another Rate Hike 

Ever hoping to tax itself out of current financial distress, the Nigerian government has announced a massive hike in cost of passport

BREAKING: FG Tightens Security At Borders Ahead Of Planned Protests

By Doris Isreal Ijeoma The Federal Government has ramped up border security throughout the country in response to the upcoming protests against poor governance. The Comptroller General of the Immigration Service, Kemi Nandap, issued orders to all Zonal Heads, State Command Comptrollers, and Divisional Immigration Officers (DIOS) across the country to implement these heightened security protocols. According to the Service’s spokesperson, DCI Kenneth Udo, the directive aims to prevent foreign individuals from entering the country to participate in the protests. The statement emphasized the importance of vigilance and increased surveillance due to the upcoming protests organized by various groups. Nandap also announced the temporary suspension of all leave applications and instructed officers to maintain the highest levels of professionalism and patriotism during and after the protests. The Comptroller General assured Nigerians of the Service’s readiness to secure the nation’s borders and contribute to national security, reinforcing the government’s commitment to maintaining order during the planned demonstrations. The statement read, “The Comptroller General noted that, in keeping with the responsibility of safeguarding the nation’s gateways placed on the shoulders of the Service, officers, especially Heads of Border Commands, are tasked to rise to the occasion by ensuring that no foreign element can take advantage of the protest to distabilize the country. “She directs temporary suspension of all leave applications and charges officers to exercise utmost professionalism and patriotism in the discharge of their duties. during and after the protest, explaining that Nigeria is the only country we have as our own. “The CGIS assures all Nigerians of the service’s preparedness to safeguard the nation’s borders towards enhancing national security.”

President Tinubu Appoints  Kemi Nanna As Comptroller-general Of Nigeria Immigration Service 

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of DCG Kemi Nanna Nandap to serve as the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), effective from March 1, 2024. DCG Nandap takes over from Mrs. Caroline Wura-Ola Adepoju, whose term in office expires on February 29, 2024.  Before her appointment as Comptroller-General, Nandap was the Deputy Comptroller-General in charge of the Migration Directorate of the Service. The President anticipates that the new Comptroller-General will deepen the ongoing reforms in the service and create a robust mechanism for efficient and dedicated service delivery to Nigerians, as well as strengthen the nation’s security through proactive and effective border security and migration management.

University of Abuja, NIDCOM Partner to Enhance Migration Management

The Vice Chancellor, University of Abuja Prof. Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah, says, the university, through the newly established Centre for Migration Studies, is willing to partner the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) for better migration management. Na’Allah stated this during a visit to the Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon.Abike Dabiri-Erewa, at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja. The Vice Chancellor emphasized that the visit was to foster partnership for better migration management. Na’Allah described the University as an institution with large impact, noting that it is the first to introduce Distance Learning in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to leverage learning opportunities for Public Servants and other Nigerians all over the country. “As an Institution situated in the centre of Nigeria, with over 50,000 students and also the first University the Embassies come to interact with, we are ready to partner with you on the job you do as a Commission” he added. The VC stated that the Centre is willing to talk to Nigerians and educate them on regular migration with information on several ways to migrate legitimately. In his words, “we can work on joint research, joint sensitization effort to curb migration crisis, train your staff and other possible ways to best enhance migration management”. Receiving the delegation on behalf of the Chairman/CEO NiDCOM, Dr. Sule Yakubu Bassi, Secretary to the Commission, welcomed the initiatives with so much enthusiasm, noting that the Commission is fully committed to better migration management. Bassi describes the partnership as essential, reiterating that migration is a natural phenomenon that can not be stopped but can be beneficial if properly managed. “Different factors such as push factor and pull factor leads to migration, what we do is to see how we can turn it into a win-win situation by encouraging those intending, to migrate regularly so they can contribute their own quota to National Development” Bassi noted. He further urged the university to also look at means through which the Diaspora can be encouraged to maintain ties with their homeland. “We engage with the over 20 million Nigerian Diaspora by enabling them with knowledge on how to engage with Nigeria. They have talents, resources, and global exposure, which can be harnessed for national development.” Bassi added. The Secretary elaborated how the Commission continues to attract Nigerians back home and their investments through numerous programmes guided by the National Diaspora Policy, such as Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS), Diaspora Investment Trust Fund, Diaspora Mortgage Scheme and the National Diaspora Merit Award amongst others.

Interior Minister Launches Automated System For Online Passport Application

The International Passport Automation system has been launched by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. The system was launched in Abuja on Monday, January 8, 2024 and would enable users to upload their passport photographs and other supporting documents from the comfort of their homes for the purpose of getting an international passport, thus reducing human contact in the process. The portal works for both fresh applications and renewal of passports. According to the Minister, the new system is important in strengthening the country’s security architecture and safeguarding Nigerian residents’ comfort and convenience. He said the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) had deployed document verification personnel across all local government areas in the country to improve document verification. Tunji-Ojo emphasized the government’s commitment to putting a stop to the use of forged documents in passport applications. 5 Easy Steps To Apply For Your International Passport On Phones Or Laptops Below are five easy steps to follow in order to apply for a new international passport or a renewal. 1. Access the online portal at https://passport.immigration.gov.ng/ and enter your NIN. The system will auto-fill your data from the National Identity Management Commission. 2. Fill in all necessary data fields as prompted, ensuring accuracy and completeness. 3. Upload your passport photo and other required breeder documents (such as birth certificate, indigeneship certificate, etc) onto the platform. 4. Visit an immigration office for biometric capture. This step ensures the necessary physical verification and identity confirmation. 5. Expect your passport to be ready for collection within two weeks, marking the successful completion of the application process. It should be noted that for passport renewals, applicants must have their old passport number readily available for uploading during the application.

112,351 Uncollected Passports Across Nigeria, Says Immigration Boss

The acting Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Mrs. Wura-Ola Adepoju, has revealed that a significant backlog of uncollected passports exists across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). According to her, as of October 5, a staggering total of 112,351 passport booklets had not been retrieved by applicants. During a press briefing at the service headquarters in Abuja, Mrs. Adepoju addressed the concerning issue and shared updates on the passport distribution. She noted that the NIS had successfully cleared all 204,332 passport applications that had accumulated over time and this accomplishment is following a two-week deadline set by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for the service to address the backlog. Despite this achievement, Mrs. Adepoju emphasized that only 91,981 passport booklets had been collected by applicants thus far. She stressed the importance of prompt collection, as these travel documents are essential for various purposes, including international travel. In light of the remaining uncollected passports, the NIS chief urged applicants to visit their respective application centres to retrieve their passports. The backlog not only poses administrative challenges but also underscores the significance of ensuring that applicants receive their passports promptly to facilitate their travel plans and related activities.

NIS boss launches Visa on Arrival Lounge, declares state of emergency on passport

The Acting Comptroller General of Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Caroline Adepoju, on Friday, launched a state-of-the-art Visa on Arrival Lounge in Lagos, whilst announcing a state of emergency on Passport issuance across the country. Adepoju said during her working visit to Lagos where she said there was an urgent need to address the challenges faced by Nigerians in obtaining international passports. A statement by the Service Public Relations Officer (SPRO) Mr Tony Akuneme, said that the acting CGI inaugurated a state-of-the-art Visa on Arrival Lounge at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport. The NIS boss used the event to announce a comprehensive plan of action to tackle the issues effectively. She said that the facility was a demonstration of the NIS commitment to improving the overall travel experience for visitors entering Nigeria. According to her, the state of emergency declaration on Passport issues signifies the renewed commitment of NIS to resolve the challenges faced by Nigerians seeking to obtain passports. “It represents a call to action for all stakeholders to prioritise efficiency, transparency, and excellence in service delivery, “she said. Adepoju directed all Passport Control Officers, relevant units and personnel, including Missions abroad, to eliminate all hindrances preventing Nigerians from accessing Passports promptly. “NIS is leveraging technology and instituting robust administrative measures to enhance the Passport application and issuance process. “We urge all Nigerians to remain patient and cooperate with the service as it takes decisive steps to address the Passport crisis,” she said. Adepoju assured the public that the efforts was to ensure that every eligible Nigerian who required a Passport could obtain one in a timely manner. Adepoju also paid an unscheduled visit to Alausa Passport office to assess the situation firsthand. In her address, Ag. CGI emphasised the necessity to dismantle all man-made bottlenecks impeding Passport application process. She stressed that the NIS management was fully committed to addressing institutional and technology-based drawbacks to ensure more efficient and streamlined service delivery. Also, Adepoju, who recognised the importance of collaboration and community engagement, embarked on a grassroots sensitisation initiative targeting traditional rulers. She visited the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, during which she sought the cooperation of traditional rulers nationwide in NIS activities, including the prevention of human trafficking.