Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Honourable Minister of Interior since his appointment in 2023 by president Bola Tinubu has maintained an impressive transformative leadership setting him as more than just one of the best ministers the ministry ever had but also emerging as one of Tinubu’s top performers.
Dr Tunji Ojo’s entrant as a politician would leave many doubting if he could do much in the ministry that had been the country’s internal security coordinating institution. Yet his comprehensive reform agenda in the ministry tackled long-standing issues within the Ministry of Interior and its agencies. A leadership style driven by the commitment to enhancing national security, streamlining immigration processes, and improving correctional services. Notably, he successfully cleared a backlog of over 200,000 passport applications within record time when so many analysts had considered the feat impossible in Nigeria.
The Correctional facilities which had over the past decades become an eyesore experienced drastic turn around with the Suleja and Kuje Correctional centres receiving face lifts in a pilot run.
Furthermore, he has improved the welfare and salary structures for paramilitary agencies, demonstrating his dedication to supporting those who safeguard the nation. He launched an initiative targeted at automating border security in order to curbing illegal immigration and smuggling which fostered trans-border criminal activities from neighboring countries.
The “Smart Border” initiative exemplifies his commitment to modernizing Nigeria’s border management. By incorporating advanced technologies, this program has streamlined border operations, making them more efficient and secure. This initiative not only enhances national security but also facilitates legitimate trade and travel, fostering economic growth.
In response to the increasing need for effective disaster management, Dr. Tunji-Ojo established the “Disaster Response Unit.” This unit is dedicated to coordinating emergency responses and ensuring that Nigeria is prepared for any eventuality, demonstrating his proactive approach to governance and commitment to protecting lives and property.
The introduction of the “E-Visa” system has revolutionized how Nigeria manages immigration. By simplifying the visa application process, this initiative has made it easier for foreign nationals to visit Nigeria, promoting tourism and international collaboration.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo also championed the “Migration Information Data Analysis System” (MIDAS), which enhances the management of migration data. This system provides critical insights that inform policy decisions, ensuring that Nigeria can effectively address migration challenges.
Recognizing the need for reform, he established the “Immigration Service Reform Committee”, which focuses on modernizing the operations of the Nigerian Immigration Service. This initiative aims to enhance efficiency, reduce corruption, and improve service delivery, ensuring that citizens receive the support they deserve.
The remarkable achievements by the Honorable Minister of Interior could have tapped as enough to take a breather by any minister but not for Dr Tunji Ojo, who days ago met with the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace, Festus Keyamo on the plan to launch Nigeria’s first e-visa system for foreigners.
Dr Tunji Ojo is one Minister who should be labelled “Mr Collabo”, as since his assumption of office has taken the lead in collaborating and partnering with various ministries and agencies including Ministries of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Defense, Foreign Affairs and others. It is not an exaggeration to say that other ministers can take a cue from his collaborative skills for undisputed results.
His appointment by president Tinubu has further consolidated the argument that competence bears no age, considering one of the best ministers in this administration happens to be one of the youngest. The years ahead could only becoming a surfing tide for him given the stellar performance he has recorded in less than 2 years. Indeed, there is so much to look forward to in marking the transformative streak for Dr Olubunmi Tunji Ojo.