The federal government has revealed that about 2,254 vandals have been arrested in the last 12 months, with 550 currently under prosecution while 122 convictions already secured.
This efforts are geared towards ending vandalism and ensure protection of critical infrastructure across the country.
Speaking at a press conference Friday in Abuja to mark his one year in office, Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, also revealed that his leadership, through the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the process of licensing an additional 178 private security companies to boost security across the country.
According to him, a total of 3,394 private security guards have undergone rigorous training, while the sector generated an impressive revenue of ₦861,620,500 in the last one year.
The Minister said: “Our personnel have received extensive training to maintain readiness in the face of evolving security challenges. Over the past year, 21,383 senior officers and 2,551 junior officers were promoted, while 818 junior officers were upgraded to senior officer cadre, ensuring a motivated and capable workforce. We have also prioritized the National Plan on Safe School initiative, providing a secure environment for our children to learn without fear.”
In the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), the minister said to enhance operational efficiency and inmate welfare across various regions his leadership has completed projects such as the renovation of administrative and kitchen blocks, the construction of official quarters, and the installation of security infrastructure like perimeter fences.
“In Niger State, we completed the renovation of the administrative block and constructed a new kitchen block at Suleja. In Kano State, we reconstructed an observation tower with a mini-armoury, strengthening security measures. In Lagos State, we built a 96-capacity solid concrete cell block at the Kirikiri Maximum Security facility, improving accommodation for inmates.”
In Immigration, Dr. Tunji-Ojo said his leadership has embarked on a comprehensive overhaul of the passport issuance process, addressing long-standing issues that have frustrated millions of Nigerians.
“One of our key accomplishments was clearing a massive backlog of 204,332 passport applications, a backlog that had left many citizens stranded for months, if not years. Today, I can proudly say that we have not only addressed this challenge but we have introduced home delivery services for passports. This innovation ensures that Nigerians no longer have to endure the stress of traveling long distances or waiting in long queues. Passports are now delivered directly to the homes of applicants, a service that has brought immense relief to thousands.
“We are also installing a total of 41 e-gates at our airports (eight at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, 21 slated for the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, and four each at the international airports in Kano, Enugu, and Port Harcourt) offering diasporan Nigerians and returning citizens an automated, hassle-free screening process. This innovation not only improves efficiency at entry points but also ensures that our citizens abroad return home with pride and ease.”
In Federal Fire Service, the Minister said: “One of our landmark achievements in this sector has been the remodeling and groundbreaking of the National Fire Academy in Sheda, Abuja. This academy will serve as a national hub for training, research, and development, ensuring that our fire personnel are equipped with cutting-edge skills and knowledge to tackle fire-related emergencies.
“Additionally, we recognised that the existing legal framework guiding fire services in Nigeria was outdated and insufficient to meet current demands. As a result, we have initiated efforts towards passing a comprehensive Fire Act to replace the antiquated 1963 law. This new legislation will modernise fire safety protocols and give the FFS the legal backing it needs to operate effectively in today’s world.”
