ABUJA – The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Blockchain technologies to strengthen migration management, border governance, national security and service delivery.
This is to be achieved through continuous innovation and capacity development, according to NIS.
The commitment was reiterated at the opening of the second phase of the Service’s Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain Capacity Building Programme for officers in Abuja.
In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, the Service Public Relations Officer (SPRO), Mr Akinsola Akinlabi, said the programme had been expanded to train 220 officers.
He said the training would be in two batches following the successful completion of its first phase.
He said the initiative forms part of the Service’s digital transformation agenda aimed at building a technologically skilled workforce.
The Deputy Comptroller-General (DCG) in charge of the ICT and Cybersecurity Directorate, Mrs Augusta Obianime, in her address commended the Comptroller-General of Immigration (CGI), Mrs Kemi Nandap, for her unwavering support.
Obianime said the success of the first phase led to the establishment of an Inter-Directorate AI and Blockchain Committee to deepen institutional collaboration and drive the adoption of emerging technologies across the Service.
“The training has been expanded to accommodate 220 officers in two batches.
“We urge participants to apply the knowledge gained to improve operational efficiency and service delivery in their respective areas of responsibility,” she said.
Declaring the training open, Nandap, represented by the DCG in charge of the Visa and Residency Directorate, Mrs Franca Nwanneka, reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to continuous learning, innovation and professional excellence.
She said AI presents significant opportunities to improve operational efficiency, intelligence-led migration management and service delivery, adding that its successful deployment depends on the competence, professionalism and commitment of officers.
According to her, emerging technologies will continue to play a critical role in strengthening institutional performance and addressing contemporary migration and border management challenges.
“This initiative underscores NIS’ commitment to developing digitally skilled workforce capable of leveraging emerging technologies to strengthen operational excellence, improve service delivery and enhance border security in line with global best practices,” she said.
The CGI commended the ICT and Cybersecurity Directorate, facilitators and members of the organising committee for advancing the Service’s digital transformation agenda through strategic capacity-building initiatives.
Reports that the programme featured sessions on AI concepts and applications, blockchain technology, AI ethics and data protection, as well as AI-blockchain integration for NIS digital operations.
The sessions focused on enhancing migration management, border governance, institutional efficiency and national security, while equipping officers with practical skills for modern immigration administration. (NAN)
