Lagos International Airport is set to be equipped with 17 biometric clearance gates, as part of the Federal Government’s plan to install biometric gates at international airports across Nigeria.
These advanced facilities are anticipated to be operational by March 2024, enhancing the efficiency of passenger clearance services at the country’s entry points.
The biometric clearance gates, designed for the Nigeria Immigration Service, will be installed at several key airports, including the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Port Harcourt International Airport, and Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu.
This initiative is expected to streamline the process for passengers entering Nigeria through these international airports.
During an inspection visit to the Abuja international airport, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, provided details about the distribution of these gates.
Lagos will receive 17 gates, Abuja will have 10, while Port Harcourt and Kano will each be equipped with five gates, and Enugu will get four.
Tunji-Ojo expressed his satisfaction with the progress, noting that the facilities are about 70% complete and will significantly enhance the management of international passengers.
“I am impressed by the levels and pace of work I have seen here today. The facilities are about 70 per cent ready. This means our border control management system is on track. It also means that the Nigeria Immigration Service is ready to contribute its quota to the National Security Architecture,” said Tunji-Ojo.
He emphasized the role of these gates in aligning with global standards and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, aiming to provide quality services to Nigerians.
The minister highlighted the efficiency of the system, where a passenger can be cleared in about 30 seconds, reducing the need for direct interaction with immigration officers unless flagged for further scrutiny.
“This facility is not just for you to pass at record time, no. It is also to secure the nation and add another layer to our National Security Architecture,” Tunji-Ojo added.
The introduction of these biometric gates is expected to alleviate the frequent delays passengers face at Nigeria’s airports, marking a significant step in modernizing the country’s immigration and security processes.
