Federal Government Introduces 30-Second Biometric Clearance Gates at Nigerian International Airports
The Federal Government has taken a significant step towards enhancing border control and passenger clearance efficiency with the installation of 30-second biometric clearance gates at key international airports across Nigeria.
Expected to be operational by March 2024, these state-of-the-art gates will streamline the immigration process for travelers arriving at 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.
During an inspection visit to the Abuja International Airport, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, expressed his satisfaction with the progress of the installation, noting that Lagos will receive 17 gates, Abuja 10, while Port Harcourt, Kano, and Enugu will each have five and four gates respectively.
Tunji-Ojo emphasized the transformative impact of these facilities, describing them as a game changer in the management of international passengers. He highlighted that the gates, which clear passengers in just 30 seconds, align with global standards and President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at delivering quality services to Nigerians.
He stated, “Once you check in, you don’t need to have an encounter with Immigration officers anymore except you are a person of interest. 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."
The introduction of these biometric gates represents a significant stride towards enhancing border security and efficiency in Nigeria's international airports, underscoring the government's commitment to implementing cutting-edge solutions in line with global best practices.
