From Zaria to NIS Leadership: The Kemi Nanna Nandap Success Story
Kemi Nanna Nandap, PCC, MMIS, FSMN, is a trailblazing immigration expert and a distinguished officer of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS). Appointed as Comptroller-General in March 2024 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, she has ushered in a new era of digital transformation, enhanced border security, and efficient migration management. Her leadership is marked by technological innovation, policy reforms, and international collaboration, positioning Nigeria’s immigration system among the most advanced in Africa.
| Full Name | Kemi Nanna Nandap, PCC, MMIS, FSMN |
| Date of Birth | June 3, 1966 |
| Age (2024) | 58 years |
| Place of Birth | Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria |
| State of Origin | Ogun State |
| Education | B.Sc. Biochemistry, University of Ilorin |
| Career | Comptroller-General, Nigeria Immigration Service (2024–Present) |
| Key Roles | – DCG, Migration Directorate – Comptroller, Murtala Muhammed Airport Command – Comptroller, Plateau State Command |
| Honors & Awards | – Passed Command Course (PCC) – Member, Management Institute of Singapore (MMIS) – Fellow, Security Management of Nigeria (FSMN) |
Early Life & Education
Born in Zaria, Kaduna State, with roots in Ogun State, Nandap attended:
- Corona Primary School, Jos
- Therbow Primary School, Zaria (First School Leaving Certificate)
She later earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry from the University of Ilorin, equipping her with analytical skills that shaped her strategic leadership in immigration management.
Career Progression & Key Leadership Roles
1. Early Career & Rise in the NIS
Nandap’s journey in the Nigeria Immigration Service has been defined by progressive leadership:
- Comptroller, Murtala Muhammed Airport Command, Lagos
- Enhanced airport security and anti-human trafficking operations
- Partnered with INTERPOL, IOM, and other agencies to combat smuggling
- Comptroller, Plateau State Command
- Upgraded immigration facilities and staff training programs
- Strengthened border control mechanisms in the North-Central region
2. Deputy Comptroller-General (Migration Directorate)
Before her appointment as Comptroller-General, she served as DCG in charge of Migration, where she:
- Spearheaded policy reforms on border security & migration governance
- Strengthened inter-agency cooperation with military & intelligence units
3. Comptroller-General of Immigration (2024–Present)
Since assuming office, Nandap has introduced groundbreaking reforms, including:
A. Digital Transformation & Passport Reforms
- Full digitization of passport applications (reducing processing delays)
- Biometric verification systems to curb identity fraud
- Expanded visa-on-arrival policy to attract investors & professionals
B. Border Security & Surveillance
- Deployment of drones & AI-driven monitoring systems at land/sea borders
- Enhanced training for officers in counter-terrorism & document fraud detection
- Stronger collaboration with ECOWAS & international agencies
C. ECOWAS Electronic Identity Card Implementation
- Championed the ECOWAS Biometric ID Card for seamless West African travel
- Facilitated economic integration while maintaining strict security checks
D. International Cooperation & Anti-Trafficking Efforts
- Chairperson, ECOWAS Immigration Forum (leading policy harmonization)
- Partnerships with IOM, INTERPOL, EU to combat human trafficking & smuggling
Conclusion
Kemi Nanna Nandap stands as a transformative leader in Nigeria’s public service, redefining immigration governance through innovation, security, and international collaboration. Her tenure continues to set new benchmarks for border management, migration policies, and national security.
