Lagos: The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s dedication to implementing reforms within the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and the Ministry of Interior. This announcement came following a meeting with the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) in Lagos, where Tunji-Ojo addressed newsmen on Tuesday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the minister described the meeting as a ‘family gathering,’ underscoring NECA’s pivotal role as a strategic ally in the nation’s socio-economic development. He highlighted the essential contributions made by the private sector and discussed the review of strategies aimed at enhancing government performance, promoting growth within the private sector, and ensuring decisions align with the interests of Nigerians and the overall economy.
The minister emphasized that the reforms extend beyond the CERPAC initiative, indicating a broad spectrum of changes designed to simplify life for Nigerians and expatriates. He stressed the need for strategic partnerships with NECA, affiliate organizations, and other agencies to facilitate collaborative decision-making that prioritizes the interests of Nigerians.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo expressed confidence in the country’s ability to achieve exceptional outcomes through unity and a shared understanding of goals, reassuring citizens of ongoing collaborations to fulfill the ministry’s objectives. He also mentioned an agreement for these meetings to occur biannually to address concerns, especially those impacting businesses.
Highlighting the progress made, Tunji-Ojo noted ongoing reforms related to CERPAC, expatriate quotas, business permits, and workflow improvements in border control affecting the NIS. In his remarks, NECA’s Director-General, Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, praised the government’s visionary approach, acknowledging the significance of constructive stakeholder engagement.
Oyerinde announced the formation of a committee dedicated to reviewing key issues, with work set to commence in the upcoming week, demonstrating a commitment to progress and collaboration.