International Airports Get Biometric Gates

The federal government has set up 30-second biometric clearance gates for the Nigeria Immigration Service at the country's international airports.

These airports' gates are anticipated to be ready by March 2024.

The facilities will be installed at Nigeria's international airports: Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, which is located in Abuja, Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Port Harcourt International Airport, and Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu.

When in use, the gates will offer seamless clearance services for passengers entering the nation through any of the international airports.

During an inspection visit to Abuja International Airport on Monday, Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo said Lagos would receive 17 gates, Abuja would get 10, Port Harcourt and Kano would get five each, and Enugu could get four.

He went on to say that the amenities would transform the country's ability to manage travelers from abroad effectively and efficiently.

Tunji-Ojo stated, "I am impressed with the levels and pace of work I saw here today. The facilities are about 70% ready. This suggests our border control management system is on track. It also shows that the Nigerian Immigration Service is prepared to contribute its share to the National Security Architecture.

"What we see in our national security outlook is influenced by the efficiency in which the NIS provides its services. All of this is being carried out in accordance with global best practices and standards, in addition to President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda to deliver quality services to Nigerians.

"We decided that the greater number of airport gates there are, the easier it is going to be to clear passengers. And based on the ones that were tested, it takes about 30 seconds for a passenger to clear, so I look at the options and hardware, and I believe they are excellent.

"Unless you're a person of interest, you are not obligated to speak with immigration officers after checking in. This facility isn't just for passing in record time. It also serves to secure the nation by adding an additional component to our National Security Architecture.

"If a person has an interest, he can be readily recognized. And this enables our Immigration team to do their duties more effectively."