The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has suspended Assistant Superintendent of Immigration II, Okpravero Ufuoma, for allegedly soliciting a bribe from a traveller.
This announcement was made by NIS Comptroller General, Mrs. Kemi Nandap, in a statement issued by the Service Public Relations Officer, Mr. Kenneth Udo, in Abuja on Thursday, August 8, 2024.
Mrs. Nandap emphasized that the officer’s behavior, captured in a video circulating on social media, is contrary to the values and ethics of professionalism upheld by the NIS. She condemned the misconduct, stating it undermines the ongoing reforms aimed at enhancing service standards.
“The disgraceful act of soliciting financial gratification from a traveller is not a representation of our commitment to hospitality, reception, and courtesy,” Nandap said. She assured the public that the officer has been indefinitely suspended pending the outcome of disciplinary procedures, in accordance with the law and Public Service Rules.
The NIS received a video titled “This is how immigration officers treat tourists in Nigeria,” showing the officer soliciting a bribe. Nandap reiterated the NIS’s commitment to removing corrupt elements within its ranks and maintaining a zero-tolerance policy for corruption. She further assured that the NIS would continue striving for excellence in service delivery, aligning with the Federal Government’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda.’
To prevent future incidents, electronic gates (e-gates) are being installed at all international airports to facilitate smoother travel for passengers. Nandap urged the public to report any form of misconduct or corruption by NIS officers to the appropriate authorities.
