The National Joint Youth and Students Stakeholders in Ondo state, have hailed the Minister for Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, over what the group described as unprecedented achievements recorded within a year in office.
The Students and youth body who stated this commendation said the minister has been able to change the unpleasant narratives of political officeholders in Nigeria.
The press conference was attended by the Minister’s SA on Youths Affairs, Moshood Olawale; representatives of NANS, NAOSS, Ondo State Chapter of the National Youth Council; Niger Delta Youths, Akoko youths and other youths/Students groups in the State.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Ifon Daniel Samuel, stated that the feat recorded by Tunji-Ojo is a testament to his commitment towards efficiency and service delivery.
Samuel said the achievements under the stewardship of Tunji-Ojo have been unprecedented, through various reforms within the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).
“Inheriting a backlog of 204,332 passport applications, Honorable Tunji-Ojo did not shy away from this daunting challenge. Instead, with a clear vision and decisive action, he orchestrated the clearance of this backlog within an astounding three-week period.
“This feat, by all standards, is a testament to his commitment to efficiency and service delivery. Through this singular achievement, he has restored faith in the NIS, reaffirming its capacity to meet the needs of Nigerian citizens with diligence and competence.
“But Honorable Tunji-Ojo’s achievements do not end there. His leadership has ushered in a new era of modernized and efficient service delivery in the immigration sector.
“With his pledge to ensure that passport applications will now be processed within two weeks starting February 2025, he has set a new standard for responsiveness and reliability.
“Additionally, the introduction of home and office delivery services for passports represents a forward-thinking approach that prioritizes convenience and accessibility for all Nigerians.”
He said the initiative to allow personal uploads of passport photographs further streamlines the process, making it more user-friendly and efficient, and eliminating unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.
“Under his leadership, the Ministry of Interior has not only excelled in service delivery but has also demonstrated fiscal responsibility by saving the government millions of naira through an automated application system.
“These reforms underscore Honorable Tunji-Ojo’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and the prudent management of public resources.
He also appreciated President Bola Tinubu for appointing Tunji-Ojo as Minister of Interior, saying the choice has proven to be a masterstroke, as the Ministry has been rejuvenated and has become a beacon of hope for Nigeria youths.
He added that Tunji-Ojo’s appointment was one of the best things that had happened in the nation’s polity since the beginning of President Tinubu’s administration
“When Honorable Tunji-Ojo was appointed to the position of Minister of Interior, the expectations were high.
“As a young and dynamic leader, many looked to him to bring a fresh perspective and innovative solutions to the challenges facing the Ministry. Today, it is evident that he has not only met these expectations but has far exceeded them.
“As young Nigerians, we find in Honorable Tunji-Ojo a leader who not only represents our aspirations but also delivers on his promises.
” He has shown that with dedication, vision, and hard work, the youth can indeed drive meaningful change in our society.
“The Ministry of Interior, under his guidance, has not disappointed us, and we are confident that his continued leadership will only bring more progress and innovation.”