The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) in Ekiti State recently welcomed Ifedapo Osewolo as its new Comptroller of Immigration Service (CIS). Osewolo formally assumed leadership following the retirement of Comptroller Dauda Ibrahim Sabimoro during a handover ceremony in Ado-Ekiti.
During the event, Osewolo commended Sabimoro’s exceptional service, acknowledging his transformative initiatives and dedication. He praised the outgoing comptroller for strengthening border security and enhancing staff welfare throughout his tenure.
Additionally, Osewolo thanked Ekiti Command officers for their support, urging unity to advance the NIS mandate. He emphasized accountability, innovation, and adherence to protocols as pillars for operational excellence.
Moreover, the new comptroller pledged to prioritize staff development, promising training programs to boost efficiency. He reaffirmed his commitment to combating illegal migration while streamlining passport services for residents.
Osewolo also lauded Comptroller-General Kemi Nanna Nandap for her confidence in his appointment. He vowed to align Ekiti’s strategies with national objectives, ensuring seamless service delivery across the state.
Highlighting community engagement, he encouraged officers to foster trust through transparency and prompt response to public needs. “Teamwork remains vital to achieving our security and administrative goals,” he stated.
Sabimoro, in his farewell remarks, expressed pride in the command’s achievements, including reduced processing times and upgraded facilities. He urged personnel to extend the same cooperation to his successor.
The ceremony concluded with prayers for Osewolo’s successful tenure, followed by a tour of command facilities. Attendees included senior immigration officers, state officials, and civil society representatives.
Notably, Osewolo brings 25 years of experience, having previously led border units in Katsina and Cross River States. His appointment signals NIS’s focus on deploying seasoned leaders to strengthen regional operations.
Ekiti residents anticipate improved immigration services under his leadership, particularly in addressing passport backlogs and curbing human trafficking. Observers commend the NIS for ensuring a smooth transition amid rising security challenges.
As Osewolo steps into his role, stakeholders urge sustained collaboration between immigration and sister agencies. The command’s focus on technology-driven solutions is expected to bolster Nigeria’s border management framework.
In his first directive, Osewolo ordered immediate audits of all state border posts to identify vulnerabilities. This proactive measure aligns with his vision of preemptive security strategies and operational integrity.
The comptroller’s open-door policy has already boosted morale among junior staff, who describe him as approachable and decisive. His leadership style emphasizes mentorship, recognizing merit to inspire peak performance.
With rising migration trends, Osewolo’s expertise in conflict resolution will be critical in managing humanitarian crises. His predecessor’s legacy sets a high benchmark, but officers express confidence in his ability to excel.
Ekiti’s immigration command now faces the dual task of maintaining security while improving citizen interactions. Osewolo’s tenure begins amid heightened expectations, yet his track record suggests a capacity to deliver transformative results.
As the ceremony concluded, officials reiterated their commitment to national service, pledging loyalty to the new comptroller. The NIS continues to prioritize leadership continuity, ensuring stability in Nigeria’s border management ecosystem.