Nigeria launches new immigration policy targeting terrorists

                                  

Nigeria on Monday launched a new immigration policy aimed at fast-tracking the ease of doing business in the country and provide the legal framework for the dynamic and unfolding migratory realities.

The new document, titled "Immigration Regulations 2017" and launched at a well-attended ceremony in Abuja, was introduced to replace the outdated local "Immigration Act of 1963", according to the minister of interior Abdulrahman Dambazau.

Dambazau said the policy is also aimed at checking the entry of transborder criminals and terrorists, among others.

The old Immigration Act of 1963 could not take care of modern realities such as terrorism, technology and new immigration challenges, the official told the audience which included diplomats and top government officials.

He said this new policy would empower the Nigeria Immigration Service to properly register all foreigners, protect the borders, enhance internal security and attract foreign investors using the latest technology.

Noting efforts are ongoing to reduce perennial clashes between herdsmen and farmers in the country, the official added the new policy would also empower Nigeria's immigration agency to register and monitor the entry and movement of foreign herdsmen who come into the most populous African country.

Comptroller-General of the immigration agency Muhammad Babandede told Xinhua the Immigration Regulations 2017 would enhance the agency's operation in line with international best practices.

He noted some profound provisions, such as the establishment of migration directorate, dealing with issues bordering on smuggling of migrants and so on, are contained in the new document