Insight

• Ikiodiete George
• 2 Min Read

Official Functions Of The Nis: Their Roles & Responsibilities

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) is a very important agency in Nigeria. It helps to protect the country from illegal entry, controls who enters and leaves Nigeria, and issues Nigerian passports.

In this post, you’ll learn about the official functions, roles, and duties of the NIS.

What Is the NIS?

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) is a government agency that works under the Ministry of Interior. It was created to help manage immigration activities in the country. This includes issuing passports, checking who enters or leaves the country, and protecting Nigeria’s borders.

Official Roles and Responsibilities of the NIS

Below are the key functions of the Nigeria Immigration Service:

1. Issuing Passports and Travel Documents

• NIS gives out Nigerian international passports.
• They also issue travel permits and documents to Nigerians and foreigners.

2. Border Protection

• NIS officers guard Nigeria’s land, sea, and air borders.
• They stop people from entering the country illegally.

3. Controlling Entry and Exit

• The NIS checks all people coming into and leaving Nigeria at airports, seaports, and land borders.
• They screen travelers to make sure they have the right documents.

4. Issuing Visas and Permits

• NIS gives out visas, residency permits, and work permits to foreigners who want to stay or work in Nigeria.

5. Enforcing Immigration Laws

• NIS ensures that both Nigerians and foreigners follow immigration laws.
• They arrest and deport illegal immigrants when necessary.

6. Citizenship and Naturalization

• NIS helps the government process citizenship applications.
• They manage naturalization for people who want to become Nigerians.

7. Data Collection and Monitoring

• NIS collects and keeps records of people who enter or leave the country.
• They use biometric technology and other digital systems to track movement.

8. Training and Research

• NIS trains its officers and staff to stay updated with immigration standards.
• They also study global trends in immigration to improve their work.

9. Security Support

• NIS works with other security agencies like the Nigerian Police, Customs, and Army to ensure national safety.

Summary Table: NIS Functions

FAQs: Roles of the Nigeria Immigration Service

Q1: What is the main job of the NIS?
A: The main job is to control immigration, issue passports, and protect Nigeria’s borders.

Q2: Who can apply for a Nigerian passport?
A: All Nigerian citizens can apply for a passport through the NIS.

Q3: Can NIS deport illegal immigrants?
A: Yes. NIS has the right to arrest and deport foreigners who enter illegally.

Q4: Does NIS work at airports only?
A: No. NIS works at airports, seaports, and land borders across Nigeria.

Q5: Can NIS give Nigerian citizenship?
A: They help process it, but the President of Nigeria approves citizenship.

Conclusion

The Nigeria Immigration Service plays a huge role in keeping Nigeria safe and organized. From issuing passports to protecting borders and controlling immigration, their work helps Nigeria stay secure and connected to the world.

If you are planning to travel or migrate, understanding the NIS’s roles will help you follow the right steps. It’s not just about travel — it’s about national security and order.