In a significant move toward enhancing airport security and efficiency, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, oversaw the successful test run of electronic gates (e-gates) at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
During the test run on Friday, Dr. Tunji-Ojo declared the project 99 percent complete and confirmed that the e-gates would be fully operational starting next week.
Accompanied by Dr. Aishetu Ndayako, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, and Kemi Nanna Nandap, the Comptroller-General of Immigration, among other high-ranking government officials, Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasized that the deployment of e-gates aims to streamline passenger movements by eliminating human interfaces and reducing bureaucratic processes.
According to the Minister, a total of 29 e-gates will be deployed in Lagos, with four each in Enugu and Kano, and five in Port-Harcourt.
Furthermore, he highlighted that rigorous testing of airport infrastructure and command and control centers has been conducted, ensuring the rejection of fake and expired passports while facilitating the clearance of genuine ones.*
Dr. Tunji-Ojo underscored the importance of the e-gates in bolstering Nigeria’s airport security, stating, “With this massive infrastructure, we believe that no unwanted persons or persons of interest can find their way into Nigeria.”
He attributed the successful implementation of the project to President Buhari’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes transforming the country’s narratives and facilitating seamless passenger movements.
The Minister also commended the Minister of Aviation, Honorable Festus Keyamo (SAN), and other stakeholders for their contributions to the project’s realization.
The deployment of e-gates at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to enhance airport security and streamline passenger processes.
