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Tag: Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo

  • FG declares public holiday for Eid-ul-Mawlid

    FG declares public holiday for Eid-ul-Mawlid

    The Federal Government has declared Friday, September 6 as public holidays to commemorate this year’s Eid-ul-Mawlid, the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad.

    TheNewsGuru reports that the announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the federal government.

    In a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, the minister congratulated all members of the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria and abroad on the occasion of the Eid.

    He called on Muslims to continue to reflect the values of sacrifice, obedience, and faith as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (Peace be upon Him).

    He emphasised that these values remain vital for building a united, prosperous, and progressive Nigeria.

    Tunji-Ojo further appealed to Nigerians of all faiths to seize the opportunity to pray for the peace, security, and stability of the country, while also supporting the government’s ongoing efforts to foster harmony and sustainable development.

    “The celebration of Eid-ul-Mawlid offers us yet another opportunity to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, promote peaceful coexistence, and imbibe the Prophet’s teachings of mutual respect and selfless service to humanity,” the minister said.

  • Nigerian Interior Minister calls for reform of Correctional Centres

    Nigerian Interior Minister calls for reform of Correctional Centres

    The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has emphasized that correctional centres across Nigeria must transform into institutions focused on rehabilitation and reformation, rather than serving as mere places of condemnation.

    The minister made this statement during a press conference in Abuja on Saturday, outlining the government’s vision for a more humane and effective correctional system.

    Speaking at the event, Tunji-Ojo highlighted the need for a paradigm shift in the operations of Nigeria’s correctional facilities to align with global best practices. “Our correctional centres should be places where individuals are reformed, equipped with skills, and prepared to reintegrate into society as productive citizens,” he said. “Punishment alone does not solve the problem; we must focus on transforming lives.”

    The minister revealed plans to enhance vocational training, educational programs, and psychological support within correctional facilities to reduce recidivism and promote successful societal reintegration. He also stressed the importance of improving living conditions for inmates, citing overcrowding and inadequate facilities as critical challenges.

    Tunji-Ojo announced that the Ministry of Interior is collaborating with stakeholders, including international partners, to modernize infrastructure and train correctional officers to better support rehabilitation efforts. “We are committed to ensuring that our correctional centres reflect the principles of justice, dignity, and human rights,” he added.

    The minister’s remarks come amid growing calls for prison reforms in Nigeria, where many facilities face issues such as overcrowding, poor sanitation, and limited access to rehabilitation programs. According to recent data from the Nigerian Correctional Service, over 70% of inmates in the country’s prisons are awaiting trial, further straining resources.

    Tunji-Ojo urged state governments and the judiciary to work together to expedite trials and decongest facilities, emphasizing that the success of the reformation agenda depends on a collective effort. He also called on civil society organizations to partner with the government in providing support services for inmates.

    The Ministry of Interior has pledged to roll out pilot programs in select correctional centres by the end of the year, with a nationwide implementation plan to follow. The initiative is expected to create a more rehabilitative environment and reduce the stigma faced by ex-convicts.

  • FG launches new passport front office, issues 3.5m passports

    FG launches new passport front office, issues 3.5m passports

    The Federal Government says it has issued over 3.5 million passports in under two years and saved more than N1 billion annually through system reforms.

    Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made this known on Tuesday in Abuja at the inauguration of the ministry’s new passport front office.

    Tunji-Ojo explained that the reforms align with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aiming to boost efficiency, security, and overall service delivery.

    He added that the ministry had fully automated the upload of breeder documents, such as birth and marriage certificates, previously costing the government ₦1 billion annually.

    “This is a major reform. We no longer pay contractors for services Nigerians can now perform themselves. The money remains within government,” he said.

    He also revealed that 3,080,141 passports were issued locally and 466,117 in the diaspora since August 2023.

    On legacy issues, the minister said the administration inherited over 200,000 backlogged passport applications and a debt of nearly ₦20 billion.

    He confirmed that both the backlog and debt had been completely cleared since taking office.

    “We have ended passport scarcity. Never again will Nigerians queue endlessly or be denied access to identification,” he said.

    The minister further announced that enhanced e-passport centres had increased from 26 to 44 nationwide, and from five to 47 overseas.

    Tunji-Ojo said all passport offices now issue harmonised enhanced passports in accordance with global best practices.

    “We inherited a system with inconsistent passport types, which affected credibility. Now, every Nigerian passport is ICAO-compliant and globally verifiable,” he stated.

    Regarding the new passport front office, Tunji-Ojo said it expands access and strengthens document integrity through digital processes.

    He described the launch as a significant step in easing access to travel documents for public servants.

    He lamented that until 2023, the Interior Ministry supervising NIS lacked a passport office of its own.

    He noted that the new central personalisation centre, with modern technology from Iris Smart Technologies, would be operational by August.

    He commended Iris Smart Technologies for providing advanced equipment at no cost to the government.

    In a policy shift, the minister declared that by July 31, all SEPAC and TWP applications must be completed online. He warned that manual processing would be outlawed from that date.

    “This government must know what it’s selling and to whom. Biometrics and transparency are non-negotiable. We are not in 1925; this is 2025.

    “Manual processing will be prohibited. We must collect biometrics and data from all applicants for national security,” he added.

    Tunji-Ojo said these reforms show the government’s dedication to digital governance, transparency, and efficient service delivery.

    He praised Iris Smart Technologies for supplying workstations and biometric tools for the new passport office free of charge.

    The same partner, he said, installed modern personalisation equipment at the NIS headquarters, also at no cost to government.

    He appreciated ministry directors and technical teams, urging their continued support for improving service and public trust.

    This becomes the 14th passport front office in the country. It is expected to significantly reduce waiting time and stress for public servants and their families.

    FG launches passport front office for senior public officials

    Meanwhile, the Federal Government on Tuesday in Abuja launched a new passport front office specifically for senior public officials

    Speaking at the ceremony, the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo said that the office has a specialised facility designated to facilitate a timely and seamless passport process.

    He stated that the facility was established in response to the persistent challenges faced by senior government officials in accessing passports.

    “Before now, many top-level public servants had to abandon their official duties and endure long queues at standard passport offices.

    “It will became clear that for us to serve the nation more effectively, we must also serve those tasked with its leadership more efficiently,” he said.

    He further said that the initiative was part of a broader reform effort championed by the ministry.

    “When we came in, it was shocking that the Ministry of Interior and the Nigerian Immigration Service had no dedicated passport facility for public officials.

    “Today marks a turning point as we begin to bridge that gap and set a new course for service delivery in our nation,” he added.

    Tunji-Ojo also commended the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) for its professionalism and implementation expertise.

    “This facility sets a new benchmark for excellence and will significantly improve access, reduce waiting time and thereby elevate the overall passport service delivery standard,” the minister stated.

    The inauguration was attended by the Minister of Water Resources, Prof. Joseph Utsev, heads of  all Services under the ministry alongside stakeholders.

  • FG declares public holiday to mark June 12

    FG declares public holiday to mark June 12

    The Federal Government has declared Thursday, June 12, 2025, a public holiday to mark this year’s Democracy Day celebration.

    The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Magdalene Ajani, made this known in a statement on Sunday on behalf of the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

    Congratulating Nigerians on the occasion, the minister applauded the country’s 26 years of unbroken democratic governance, describing it as a testament to the nation’s strength and endurance.

    “June 12 represents our historic journey to building a nation where truth and justice reign, peace is sustained, and our future assured,” Tunji-Ojo said.

    He added that the story of the past two and a half decades is one of “resilience, strength, and courage,” with renewed hope for a brighter future.

    The minister reiterated the commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope administration to the principles of democracy, stressing that Nigeria remains anchored on the freely expressed will of the people.

    “Democracy is sustained with open doors for further improvement,” he noted, adding that the current government is dedicated to upholding universal democratic values that shape Nigeria’s political, economic, and social development.

    June 12 was officially recognised as Democracy Day to honour the memory of the 1993 presidential election, widely considered the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history, which was annulled by the military regime.

    The day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by pro-democracy activists and a celebration of Nigeria’s journey towards accountable governance and civilian rule.

  • BREAKING: FG declares public holiday for Sallah celebrations

    BREAKING: FG declares public holiday for Sallah celebrations

    The Federal Government has declared Friday, June 6, and Monday, June 9, 2025, as public holidays to commemorate this year’s Eid-ul-Adha celebration.

    TheNewsGuru reports that the announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the federal government.

    In a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, the minister congratulated all members of the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria and abroad on the occasion of the Eid.

    He called on Muslims to continue to reflect the values of sacrifice, obedience, and faith as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (Peace be upon Him).

    “Let us use this solemn period to pray for a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria,” the statement read.

    Dr. Tunji-Ojo assured citizens that the various reforms and policies being implemented under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda are geared towards restoring Nigeria’s path to sustainable growth and progress.

    While wishing the Muslim faithful a joyful Eid-ul-Adha celebration, the minister also urged all Nigerians—regardless of religion or region—to work collectively with the current administration in rebuilding the nation.

    “Let us join hands to restore the glory of Nigeria as a great nation,” he said.

  • Breaking: FG declares May 1 public holiday for Workers Day

    Breaking: FG declares May 1 public holiday for Workers Day

    The Federal Government has announced that Wednesday, May 1, will be a public holiday to celebrate Workers’ Day this year.

    This was declared by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the government.

    The announcement was made in a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday night by Magdalene Ajani, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry.

    Ajani hailed workers for their diligence and sacrifice, reiterating the need for peace to drive industrialisation and economic growth.

    He further noted that workers’ efforts are mainly responsible for the greatness of the country and the respect Nigeria commands in the comity of nations.

    While wishing workers a happy celebration, Tunji-Ojo, therefore, urged workers to imbibe the culture of innovation and productivity and also to keep hope alive as the present administration of President Bola Tinubu is committed to the Renewed Hope Agenda he promised.

    He added, “There is dignity in labour; the dedication and commitment to the work we do is vital to nation-building.

    We encourage workers to raise the bar of their trade to drive and upgrade the bar of governance and make all the people of Nigeria derive maximum benefit from the nation’s wealth.

    “This Administration is fully committed to the security of life and property of every citizen and foreigners in the country.”

  • NSCDC officers who extorted over N5.2m from travellers, detained

    NSCDC officers who extorted over N5.2m from travellers, detained

    Ahmed Abubakar, the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC),  has ordered the detention of officers for allegedly extorting N5.2m from a young man travelling from Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State to Akure, Ondo State.

    TheNewsGuru reports that the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, had issued a directive on a thorough investigation into a viral social media report.

    The minister had condemned the alleged misconduct, and reiterated the Federal Government’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption, abuse of power, and indiscipline within the country’s paramilitary agencies.

    “We are building a paramilitary that is disciplined, professional, and serves Nigeria and Nigerians with a sense of dignity and patriotism. In this case, we will ensure that justice is upheld,” the Minister stated.

    Responding, the NSCDC spokesperson, CSC Afolabi Babawale, via a statement signed on Wednesday disclosed that the CG described the accused officers’ conduct as unprofessional and a gross violation of the corps’ Code of Ethics and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).

    He directed that the officers be immediately transferred to the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja for detention and to face a disciplinary committee set up to conduct a full-scale investigation.

    Audi stressed that the Corps would not tolerate acts that bring disrepute to its name and pledged to apply the full weight of the law if the officers are found guilty, in line with the Public Service Rules (PSR). He reiterated the Corps’ commitment to upholding professionalism, accountability, and discipline within its ranks.

    “I want to reassure Nigerians that no one found culpable will be shielded. Every officer will be held accountable for their actions, and appropriate sanctions will be applied to serve as a deterrent to others,” the CG said.

    He further urged members of the public not to lose trust in the Corps, while encouraging continued cooperation and information-sharing without fear of harassment, intimidation, or extortion.

  • FG gives fresh update on Immigration officer ‘killed by Chinese firm’

    FG gives fresh update on Immigration officer ‘killed by Chinese firm’

    The federal government has relieved a Chinese company in Niger State of any direct involvement in the killing of a personnel of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).

    The Special Adviser to the Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on Media and Publicity, Babatunde Alao in a statement on Friday said a stray bullet hit the Immigration officer, adding that the officer was not shot on the order of the Chinese company or its employees.

    The statement asserted that the federal government has launched a full-scale investigation into the shooting of the personnel in collaboration with other security agencies and the circumstances surrounding his unfortunate death would be unraveled.

    “The officer was hit by a stray bullet that was neither shot on the order of the Chinese company nor its employee”.

    “Accordingly, the Federal Government has launched full scale investigation into the shooting of the personnel in collaboration with other security agencies.

    “This is to unravel the detailed circumstances surrounding the shooting while giving assurance that anyone found culpable will be brought to book.

    “The Minister reaffirms his strong commitment to ensuring the safety, dignity, and professional integrity of all law enforcement officers.

    “He emphasizes the government’s ongoing support for law-abiding businesses in Nigeria and reiterates the Ministry of Interior’s dedication to fostering strong partnerships with foreign nationals, aiming to build sustainable collaboration for social economic development,” the statement added.

  • That is an attack on Nigeria – FG reacts to shooting of Immigration officer by Chinese firm

    That is an attack on Nigeria – FG reacts to shooting of Immigration officer by Chinese firm

    The Federal Government has condemned the recent shooting of an officer of the Nigerian Immigration Service, which is reportedly linked to directives from a Chinese company operating in Nigeria.

    The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during a Stakeholders’ Sensitization Workshop on the Implementation of the Nigeria Visa Policy 2025 held in Abuja on Thursday, characterized the incident, which reportedly took place in Niger State, as a blatant violation of Nigeria’s sovereignty.

    The minister emphasized that such behavior will not be accepted in any sovereign nation, adding that the government intends to raise the matter with the Chinese Embassy.

    Tunji -Ojo also noted that the President Bola Tinubu-led administration is enhancing immigration reforms, which include the automation of its White, Grey, and Blacklists to effectively monitor and promptly blacklist foreign individuals who may pose a security risk.

    “I will not go to any country, open a company, and say the immigration service cannot come out. I will not do that.

    “I don’t want to mention the company here, but they shot one of our immigration officers. They told their security attaché to shoot our officer, and he did— a foreign company?

    “That happened a couple of weeks ago in Niger, and we are going to take it up with the Chinese embassy because it’s a Chinese company.

    “I won’t go to China as a Nigerian, enter a company, and tell my security to shoot a government official in uniform. It’s never done anywhere in the world. That alone is an attack on Nigeria.

    “This is unjust, and we are going to take it up. These officers put their lives on the line to serve this country, and no one will come from anywhere to shoot them in their fatherland. That officer is a father, a son, a husband—his life matters,” Tunji-Ojo added.

    The minister further disclosed that starting May 1, 2025, Nigeria will implement an Expatriate Administration System to monitor all foreign workers in the country.

    He also said a three-month window would be given for compliance, after which enforcement, prosecution, and deportation would follow for violators.

    “We will not allow the abuse of our immigration protocols. We want you in Nigeria, but only if you obey our laws,” Tunji-Ojo warned.

  • JUST IN: FG declares October 1st public holiday

    JUST IN: FG declares October 1st public holiday

    The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, October 1st, as a public holiday to celebrate the nation’s 64th Independence anniversary.

    The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Magdalene Ajani in an official statement issued on Saturday, mentioned that the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, declared the public holiday on the government’s behalf.

    The minister congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad on the occasion.

    Tunji-Ojo also praised the patient and hardworking Nigerian men and women, stating that their sacrifices will not be in vain.

    “Aligning himself with the theme for the Anniversary, the Minister reiterated the need for Nigerians to reflect on the labour of our heroes past and be inspired for the tasks ahead, realizing that a Nigeria of our dream can only be built when we unite.

    “While wishing Nigerians a Happy Independence Day Anniversary, Dr. Tunji-Ojo urged the citizens to continue to be steadfast in nation-building” the statement reads in part