Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has disclosed the reason the government automated passport processes, saying that it is for the improvement of border management and enhanced professionalism in the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).
Tunji-Ojo said this in his remarks after being conferred with the Award of Excellence in Public Service by Obafemi Awolowo University at the weekend in Ile-Ife.
According to him, the automation of passport processes and backlog clearance has improved border management and enhanced professionalism in the NIS.
The minister said that Nigeria’s future will be shaped by the level of unity, institutional reform and renewed national spirit embodied by citizens.
He said that the award carried a weight far beyond personal recognition but reaffirmed his belief that Nigeria is rising on the strength of its collective resolve.
The minister reinstated that national renewal was no longer an aspiration but a journey strengthened by courage, faith and shared responsibility.
“Let me affirm what I believe with all my heart: Nigeria is rising, not because our challenges have disappeared, but because our resolve is stronger than ever. Not because the path is smooth, but because our collective will refuses to bend, hence this award encourages us to continue on the path of national renewal with renewed faith, courage and hope.
“I remain convinced that Nigeria is moving steadily towards a stronger, more resilient future,”Tunji-Ojo said.
He used the platform to reflect on key reforms he has undertaken since assuming office in 2023. He appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing the framework for institutional transformation through the Renewed Hope Agenda, describing the president’s vision as a mandate for efficiency, compassion and national confidence.
While addressing students of the institution, Tunji-Ojo said that he still has strong belief that Nigerian youths remained the most powerful asset of the country.
“You are the keepers of the future. Your ideas, courage, conviction and curiosity will determine the direction of our nation.
He charged the students to not allow the hardships of today blur their vision of the Nigeria they want to build, while citing Nelson Mandela’s assertion that education is the most powerful weapon for change.
Tunji-Ojo dedicated the award to young Nigerians, civil servants, his family, and Tinubu, whose commitment to reform continues to energise national renewal.
In a statement, he further expressed gratitude to OAU leadership for upholding a tradition of intellectual integrity and national service.
Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, described the minister as an ambassador of the university who has demonstrated through his performance at various leadership levels that he is ready to provide solutions.
“We commend the Minister of Interior, Tunji-Ojo for providing effective services and strategic leadership across the nation. He is a good ambassador of this university,” he declared.
