National Assembly hails Interior Minister, Tunji-Ojo, over reforms
The joint committees of the Senate and House of Representatives on Interior have commended the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for what they described as far-reaching reforms across agencies under the ministry.
The commendation came on Tuesday during a joint session of the committees at the National Assembly, where the Minister and his team appeared for the 2026 budget defence.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Interior, Adams Oshiomhole, who spoke on behalf of the joint session, acknowledged the reforms being undertaken under the minister’s leadership, noting that they were already yielding visible results locally and internationally.
“Each time I pass through our airports now, I feel honoured and elated that our immigration service is wearing a new phase. The reforms currently being undertaken by the Minister are yielding appreciable results,” Oshiomhole said.
He noted that while more work remains to ensure the sustainability of the reforms, lawmakers were satisfied with the noticeable improvements across the ministry’s key agencies.
Oshiomhole also referenced the recent directive by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assigning the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to provide protection for VIPs, describing it as a demonstration of renewed confidence in the service.
“It shows renewed recognition on the part of Mr. President and it shows you’re doing well and your service is entrusted with the protection of lives and properties,” he added.
The Senate Committee Chairman further highlighted developments within the Federal Fire Service, noting that the Senate had earlier passed a resolution urging the Ministry of Interior to assess recent fire incidents in Kano that destroyed shops and private property.
He also acknowledged the efforts of the new leadership of the Nigerian Correctional Service, expressing optimism that ongoing reforms would strengthen the system.
However, the joint committees tasked the Civil Defence, Correctional, Immigration and Fire Service Board to expedite the ongoing recruitment process across the paramilitary services.
Lawmakers noted growing concerns from applicants who recently sat for examinations and are awaiting the release of results.
They urged the Board to treat the conclusion of the recruitment exercise and publication of successful candidates as a matter of urgent national importance.
