Best Minister of the Month: Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo – Minister of Interior
Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has been lauded for his transformative initiatives within the Ministry of Interior. Notably, he cleared a backlog of over 200,000 international passports within weeks of his appointment and implemented automation in the passport application process. His efforts have enhanced service delivery and strengthened national security.
Tangible Achievements in a Short Time:
He cleared over 200,000 passport application backlogs within weeks of assuming office, a significant improvement in service delivery for Nigerians. This backlog had been a major issue affecting Nigerians at home and abroad for years.
Innovation and Efficiency:
His push to automate and digitize the passport application process has reduced bottlenecks, improved transparency, and enhanced accessibility.
Impact on Security and Governance:
As Minister of Interior, his focus on strengthening internal security systems and improving the ease of obtaining travel documents has had a direct impact on both citizens and national security.
Why He Might Be Considered the Best Right Now:
• His achievements are measurable and have had a direct impact on citizens’ daily lives.
• The rapid pace of reforms he implemented shows an effective understanding of his role and leadership abilities.
Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, appointed as Nigeria’s Minister of Interior in August 2023, has implemented significant reforms across various sectors under his ministry. Here’s an overview of his notable achievements:
- Passport Processing and Immigration Services
Elimination of Backlogs: Within his initial weeks in office, Dr. Tunji-Ojo addressed a backlog of over 200,000 passport applications, ensuring timely issuance to applicants.
Tribune Online
Automation Initiatives: He spearheaded the automation of passport processing, reducing human intervention, expediting application procedures, and enhancing transparency.
Heritage Times
Data Center Establishment: Recognizing the need for a comprehensive database, he initiated the creation of a state-of-the-art data center for the Nigeria Immigration Service through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), modernizing operations and improving security.
Tribune Online
- Correctional Facility Reforms
Prison Decongestion Efforts: Dr. Tunji-Ojo facilitated the payment of fines for over 4,000 inmates who were unable to afford them, leading to their release and reducing overcrowding in correctional facilities.
insidekaduna
Facility Rehabilitation: He initiated the renovation and reconstruction of several prison facilities to improve living conditions and align them with international standards.
Tribune Online
- Border Security Enhancements
Automation of Border Monitoring: Implementing advanced technology, Dr. Tunji-Ojo launched plans to fully automate Nigeria’s border security systems, aiming to enhance surveillance and curb illegal activities.
Tribune Online
- Combating Illegal Mining
Introduction of Mining Marshals: To address the challenges of illegal mining, he established a specialized force dedicated to monitoring and enforcing regulations in mining areas, thereby safeguarding the nation’s natural resources.
Tribune Online - Fire Service Improvements
Quick Response Operations: Dr. Tunji-Ojo launched initiatives within the Nigerian Fire Service to improve emergency response times and overall efficiency, including the commissioning of new fire engines and rapid intervention vehicles.
The Guardian Nigeria
Through these comprehensive reforms, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has demonstrated a commitment to enhancing the efficiency, transparency, and effectiveness of the Ministry of Interior, significantly impacting national security and public service delivery in Nigeria.
