Kemi Nandap, the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, NIS, has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, Heads of Immigration Forum.
This appointment, which marks a significant milestone for Nigeria and the NIS, was announced in a statement by the Service Public Relations Officer, Kenneth Udo, on Tuesday in Abuja.
Nandap’s new role was established during a recent meeting held in Banjul, Gambia, where representatives from 13 ECOWAS member states gathered to discuss critical migration and mobility challenges facing the region.
The forum underscored the need for collaborative efforts to enhance immigration management and border security, which are pivotal for fostering regional integration and economic growth.
A major focus of the meeting was the implementation of the ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card, ENBIC, a key initiative aimed at streamlining the movement of citizens across borders.
The ENBIC is set to replace the ECOWAS Travel Certificate and Residence Permit, allowing for easier travel, residence, and business operations within member states while upholding national security protocols.
Nandap highlighted the urgency of this initiative, stating that it is essential for facilitating the free movement of people and goods across the region.
In her remarks, Nandap acknowledged the progress made in immigration policies but also pointed out ongoing challenges, including irregular migration, human trafficking, and heightened border security issues exacerbated by the expansive nature of the region’s borders.
She advocated for a coordinated and harmonised approach to immigration practices across West Africa, emphasising the necessity of balancing security measures with the protection of citizens’ rights.
The forum concluded with the adoption of a comprehensive roadmap aimed at implementing the pillars of the ECOWAS Immigration Act (SA.1/7/14), a decision ratified by the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government. This roadmap will serve as a strategic guide for member states to enhance their immigration policies and border management systems.
Moreover, the forum expressed its commitment to collaborate with the existing Border Management Thematic Working Group, previously established to tackle border-related challenges within the region. This collaborative approach is anticipated to strengthen the collective capacity of member states in managing migration effectively while addressing security concerns.
Nandap’s appointment is expected to bolster Nigeria’s influence within ECOWAS and enhance its role in regional immigration matters, particularly as the country grapples with various migration challenges and the need for effective border management strategies.
As the new chairperson, Nandap will play a pivotal role in steering discussions and initiatives that aim to improve the overall immigration landscape in West Africa.
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