ADEOLA OGUNLADE
The Executive Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Comrade Akeem Olalekan Dauda (AKOD), has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to enhance security and tackle illegal migration.
Comrade Dauda gave the assurance while receiving the 28th Comptroller of Immigration, Lagos State Command, Comptroller Christopher Olu Onajinrin, and other senior officers of the command during a courtesy visit to the council secretariat. The visit also featured the presentation of an Award of Commendation to the Chairman by the Nigeria Immigration Service, Lagos State Command, in recognition of his consistent support for the service.
Welcoming the delegation, Comrade Dauda appreciated the longstanding relationship between Ikeja Local Government and the Immigration Service, noting that he had supported the Alausa Passport Office over the years, first as a Secretary to the Local Government Chairman, now as Chairman.
“The local government cannot do it alone. We will continue to collaborate with the Immigration Service to improve security, address illegal migration and serve our people better. We are also ready to consider your request for support to the state headquarters at Alagbon,” he said.
Responding, Comptroller Onajinrin commended Comrade Dauda for his unwavering support, recalling that the council had provided office equipment, including air conditioners and chairs, which helped improve operations at the Alausa Passport Office.
“There is no way the history of my career will be written without mentioning Ikeja Local Government. Your contributions have greatly enhanced the Passport Office and contributed to making it one of the best-performing offices in the country,” he said.
The Comptroller disclosed that the Lagos Command had repatriated over 500 illegal immigrants in the last six months as part of efforts to strengthen national security. He also highlighted ongoing reforms by the service, including the introduction of the ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card and the e-Visa platform, which now allows eligible visitors to obtain Nigerian visas online within 24 hours.
He appealed for continued support from the council and urged residents to provide useful information that would help the service identify and apprehend illegal migrants operating within the local government.
The delegation included Assistant Comptroller O.F. Olaiya, Superintendent O. Akintola, Superintendent A.O. Odofin, Superintendent A.B. Allurah, and Deputy Superintendent A.O. Agboola.