Group lauds Interior Minister over prison reforms, online visa processing

The Nigeria Citizen Action Group (NCAG) has lauded the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for the various reforms introduced aimed at repositioning the Nigerian Correctional Service, especially efforts at ensuring prison decongestion.

The group also commended the Minister for the overhauling of Nigeria’s passport system as well as the introduction of the Online Visa Application and Processing, which is soon to take off.

This was contained in a statement made available to newsmen on Friday in Abuja and co-signed by Comrade Salahudeen Lukman, Chairman, NCAG and Ag. Executive Director, Societal Safety Network (SSN), and Hon. Mohammed Mohammed, Secretary NCAG and National Coordinator Northern Youth for Defence of Democracy.

NCAG, a coalition of over 112 civil society organisations, in the statement announced Tunji-Ojo as the “Best Performing Minister of the Year 2024” in view of his remarkable achievements since assuming office.

“This recognition is based on the Annual Citizen Rating Nigeria, an independent assessment of public service performance and accountability, conducted to evaluate the impact of government officials on national development.

“Under his leadership, the Ministry of Interior has undergone remarkable transformation, recording unprecedented achievements in its core mandates,” the group stated.

They highlighted some of these milestones to include the overhaul of Nigeria’s Passport System, ensuring faster processing, eliminating bottlenecks, and enhancing service delivery.

The statement added, “Introduction of Online Visa Processing, revolutionising the visa application process to improve ease of travel and business transactions.

“Prison reforms – enhancing correctional facilities and implementing policies that promote rehabilitation and decongestion.

“Seamless and transparent recruitment exercises. The Nigeria Fire Service and other paramilitary agencies under the Ministry have conducted credible and merit-based recruitment processes, restoring public trust.

“Revenue generation from the Marriage Registry. The Ministry has successfully generated billions of naira through its improved and digitised marriage registry services, contributing significantly to national revenue.

“The NCAG, under the leadership of Ag. Executive Director of Societal Safety Network (SSN), Comr. Salahudeen A Lukman, and Hon. Mohammed Mohammed of Northern Youth for Defence of Democracy as Secretary, remains committed to promoting excellence, accountability, and citizen-driven governance.

“Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo’s outstanding performance exemplifies the spirit of effective public service and leadership, in alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“His innovations have not only improved service delivery but also strengthened national security and economic development.

“We urge all public officials to emulate his dedication and commitment to national progress,” the group stated.

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