The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has suspended an officer indefinitely for begging a traveler at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.
The Nigeria Immigration announced the indefinite suspension of the officer in a circular signed by the Comptroller General, Kemi Nandap and posted on its X account on Thursday morning.
“The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has received a video currently circulating on social media titled “This is how Immigration officers treat tourists in Nigeria,” in which one of its officers is seen soliciting financial gratification from a traveler,” the circular read.
“We wish to inform the public that the conduct of the officer, identified as OKPRAVERO C. UFUOMA, an Assistant Superintendent of Immigration II (ASI 2) at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, does not reflect the values and ethics of professionalism upheld by the NIS.
“The NIS condemns this misconduct in the strongest terms, as it undermines the ongoing reforms aimed at enhancing our service standards.
“This disgraceful act is not representative of our commitment to hospitality, reception, and courtesy.”
The NIS reminded the public that electronic gates (e-gates) are being installed at all of the country’s international airports to facilitate smoother travel for all passengers, particularly Nigerians.
It said among other benefits, this measure aims to prevent incidents like the one involving Okpravero.
“As a result, the officer in question has been indefinitely suspended pending the outcome of disciplinary procedures, which are in accordance with the law and Public Service Rules,” Nandap said.
The NIS reiterated its commitment to identifying and removing corrupt elements within its ranks, in line with its Zero-Tolerance for Corruption policy.
It also assured the public that it will continue to strive for excellence in service delivery, in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
