Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo: A Defining Force in Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Era

In Nigeria, few leaders have demonstrated the combination of vision, competence, and results driven leadership as profoundly as Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. His tenure as Minister of Interior has not only strengthened the core institutions of the Ministry but has also transformed how Nigerians experience government service, security, and social welfare. Through his leadership, institutions once seen as bureaucratic and slow moving have been revitalised into dynamic, citizen centered entities, delivering measurable impact across identity management, emergency response, immigration, national security, and correctional reforms.

Under Hon. Tunji-Ojo’s stewardship, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has been transformed into a pillar of inclusion and security. Over 800 mobile enrolment devices were deployed, bringing the National Identification Number registration closer to millions of Nigerians, especially in underserved communities. Front-End Enrolment Partner licenses were revalidated to ensure integrity and reliability in the enrolment process, while the expansion of diaspora enrolment centres allowed Nigerians abroad to participate seamlessly in national identity programs. Crucially, the integration of NIN with the Nigeria Immigration Service improved internal security and cross agency collaboration. Technological upgrades, the launch of the NIN Authentication Service, and the relaunch of the General Multi-Purpose Card strengthened identity verification and financial inclusion. Territorial offices, a Self-Service Mobile App, a Web Modification App, and integrated payment applets further enhanced service accessibility, efficiency, and transparency nationwide.

In the realm of emergency response, Hon. Tunji-Ojo’s leadership revitalised the Federal Fire Service by increasing operational capacity through the acquisition of modern firefighting vehicles. Response times to emergencies improved significantly, resulting in better protection of lives and property. Property losses due to fire decreased from ₦1.2 trillion in 2023 to ₦1.9 trillion in 2024. The Ministry also initiated the push for repeal and amendment of outdated fire service legislation to ensure a sustainable, legally robust framework for future operations.

The Nigeria Immigration Service experienced a complete transformation under his watch. A backlog of over 200,000 passports was cleared, restoring efficiency and public confidence. Security and mobility were strengthened through increased patrols with more than 30 vehicles, while visa approvals became achievable within 48 hours. Manual registration was replaced with fully automated systems, including E-Visa applications, contactless biometrics, and doorstep delivery for Nigerians in the diaspora. Centralised Passport Personalisation Centres were launched to streamline operations, and high capacity Tier 4, 8.3 petabyte Data Centres strengthened data management and institutional resilience. The ECOWAS National Biometric ID Card was launched, promoting regional integration, secure travel, and cross border mobility.

Hon. Tunji-Ojo’s commitment to internal security and protection of national assets is equally remarkable. Through the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, he introduced the Mining Marshal initiative to secure mining sites and arrested illegal miners, protecting both natural resources and national revenue. Railway Commands were established to secure critical transportation infrastructure nationwide, and telecommunications installations were fortified, safeguarding the digital economy. To address societal challenges, a Special Female Squad was created to protect school environments. By blocking operational loopholes, the NSCDC contributed directly to national GDP growth.

Equally transformative has been his impact on the Nigerian Correctional Service, where Hon. Tunji-Ojo pursued a vision of humane, reform oriented justice. Over ₦600 million was mobilised to support institutional reforms, and more than 4,000 inmates were freed, achieving a 5 percent decongestion of custodial centres. Ten or more correctional facilities were renovated, and a centralised database was launched to improve management, security, and oversight. The recruitment of 150 medical personnel and the posting of NYSC medical corps members enhanced healthcare delivery for inmates. Welfare was significantly improved, including a nearly 50 percent increase in feeding allocations, reflecting a commitment to dignity, rehabilitation, and human rights.

Taken together, these achievements illustrate a leader whose impact transcends mere administration. Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has consistently combined innovation, efficiency, and empathy to reshape institutions that touch the lives of millions. From national identity and immigration to security, emergency response, and corrections, his leadership has strengthened systems, expanded access, and restored public confidence. In every sphere under his charge, measurable improvements whether technological, operational, or humanitarian stand as a testament to his vision and effectiveness.

In the Renewed Hope Era, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo is not only a reformer but a defining force whose work will endure as a benchmark for purposeful, transformative leadership in Nigeria’s public service. His legacy is evident in the strengthened institutions, empowered citizens, and safer, more inclusive society that bear his imprint.

Otunba Femi Balogun

Convener, BTO Spotlight