President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for peace and unity among Nigerians, emphasizing that despite political differences, the nation must remain united. Speaking during the commissioning of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Technology Innovation Complex (BATTIC) at the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) headquarters in Sauka, Abuja, Tinubu likened Nigerians to occupants of a shared building living in separate rooms, urging all to work together for the nation’s future.
The complex, a state-of-the-art facility, is designed to enhance border security, streamline migration management, and boost national security. It features an NIS Command and Control Centre, Visa Approval Centre, ECOWAS Biometric Identity Card Centre, Passport Personalization Centre, and a data center with one of the largest capacities globally.
Interior Minister Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo explained that the idea for the complex was conceived 18 years ago but delayed due to inter-agency rivalries and a lack of political will. The current administration resolved these issues, enabling the project’s completion. The facility is integrated with global standards, including the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and International Air Transport Association (IATA).
The center uses advanced analytics to assess passenger risks, detect suspicious travel patterns, and enable 24/7 surveillance of over 200 border posts nationwide. It also facilitates seamless data sharing among agencies under the Ministry of Interior, improving responses to security threats and emergencies.
Tinubu commended the collaborative effort of the ministries involved and highlighted the automated visa system’s efficiency in reducing processing times to 48 hours. He expressed pride in the Immigration Service’s advancements and noted that the project strengthens Nigeria’s international reputation while ensuring ease of travel and business.
According to IATA, Nigeria is one of only seven African countries to adopt such an advanced system, setting a benchmark for others on the continent. The BATTIC facility represents a significant leap in modernizing Nigeria’s migration infrastructure and enhancing its security framework.
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