Port Harcourt: A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress in Rivers, Mr. Darlington Nwauju, has commended President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for the innovations introduced in the ministry. Nwauju highlighted the significant turnaround in the ministry, showcasing the contributions of Nigerian youths to the nation’s development.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Nwauju expressed that in less than two years, there is verifiable evidence of the impact of the reforms introduced in the Ministry of Interior. He emphasized the importance of critically appraising a sector that was previously struggling and acknowledged its transformation into a service that benefits the public and justifies taxpayer investments.
Nwauju noted that the Ministry of Interior has surpassed its revenue generation targets over the last two budget cycles, indicating potential for improved performance. He attributed this success to the leadership qualities of the Minister and the cooperation of National Assembly committees overseeing the ministry.
He further stressed the importance of supporting public office holders who demonstrate responsibility and responsiveness. Nwauju highlighted the role of Nigerian youths, who constitute over sixty percent of the voting demographic, in advocating for change and ensuring that those promoting poor service delivery do not dominate politics.
Nwauju also commended Tunji-Ojo for facilitating the release of over 4,000 inmates from correctional facilities. The ministry, through corporate sponsorship, raised N585 million to pay the fines of these inmates. Additionally, over 100,000 personnel of paramilitary services under the Interior Ministry have been promoted, and improvements have been made in passport applications and collections.
Significant achievements include the clearance of over 200,000 passport backlogs, establishment of enhanced e-passport facilities in Europe, and the inauguration of contactless biometric passports. Other advancements include the command and control center for the NIS, deployment of e-gates at international airports, and the remodeling of the fire service academy.