The Nigeria Immigration Service and the Department of State Services have vowed to strengthen border security and tighten migration controls ahead of the 2027 general elections. The two agencies said they would intensify intelligence sharing, joint surveillance and coordinated operations to prevent foreigners and irregular migrants from interfering in the electoral process. The commitment was made at the formal flag-off of the 2027 General Elections Sensitisation Programme in Abuja.
The mechanics matter. The Comptroller-General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap, said the service occupies a strategic position in Nigeria’s security architecture because of its responsibility for border security and migration management. She warned that irregular migration, human trafficking, migrant smuggling and other transnational crimes could threaten national security if not addressed. She also cautioned immigration officers against taking sides with political parties or individuals, insisting on strict political neutrality.
The DSS Director-General, Oluwatosin Ajayi, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to safeguarding the borders throughout the electoral period. He said electoral activities could attract individuals seeking to exploit weaknesses in border controls for the movement of illicit arms and foreign mercenaries. The historical echo is the 2019 and 2023 elections, when security agencies were accused of bias and when border controls were tightened late. The difference now is timing. The agencies are preparing earlier and publicly.
The winners are the security agencies, which gain a coordination platform; the electoral process, if interference is blocked; and the public, if the borders are secured without harassment of legitimate travellers. The losers are foreign mercenaries and arms smugglers; political actors who rely on foreign support; and travellers who may face longer screening at entry points.
Winners: Security agencies; the electoral process; the public if borders are secured fairly.
Losers: Foreign mercenaries and arms smugglers; political actors relying on foreign support; travellers facing longer screening.
Bottom Line: Securing borders is necessary. The test is whether the agencies stay neutral when politicians test their loyalty.