Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has announced the arrest of several INTERPOL red list fugitives at Nigerian airports.
The arrests occurred as the suspects attempted to enter the country and were credited to enhanced border surveillance and intelligence systems.
Speaking at a maritime border security workshop in Lagos, Tunji-Ojo said the apprehensions were made possible by recent investments in border control technology. “In just two days, we intercepted individuals wanted by countries like Italy and Ireland,” he said.
“This would not have been possible before due to previously weak infrastructure.”
The minister highlighted the introduction of an Advanced Passenger Information (API) system, which enables authorities to pre-screen passengers before they arrive in Nigeria. “We now have access to traveler data before they even board their flights,” he said.
“This was not the case before President Tinubu’s administration.”
Tunji-Ojo noted that these advancements align with international standards, including United Nations API resolutions.
Also speaking at the event, Nigeria Immigration Service Comptroller General Kemi Nandap reiterated the agency’s commitment to securing the nation’s maritime borders.
She pointed to ongoing threats such as piracy, oil theft, and terrorism, emphasizing that the Service is actively working to prevent the entry of foreign criminal elements.