Nigeria Joins Global Directory to Boost Passport Ranking and Border Security
Montreal, Canada — Nigeria has officially enrolled in the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Public Key Directory (PKD) and Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), a major move designed to elevate the country’s global passport ranking, ease international travel, and strengthen internal security measures.
This announcement was made by Nigeria’s Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during the Country Signing Certificate Authority (CSCA) Import Ceremony on Wednesday, alongside Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nanna Nandap, and ICAO officials.
Speaking after the ceremony, Tunji-Ojo emphasized the Nigerian government’s commitment to modernizing its border control systems and improving the travel experience for both Nigerians and international visitors.
“Our government is particular about increasing efficiency and enhancing the overall travel experience for Nigerians and international visitors alike,” the Minister stated. “With our efforts on Border Governance and Management, Nigerians can be assured that the era of endless waiting and manual verification at airports across the globe is over. This initiative, alongside other policies, will increase our global ranking and enhance ease of doing business.”
The PKD and PKI systems will streamline the authentication of travel documents at points of entry, reducing processing times and increasing security. Tunji-Ojo noted that the new development would not only enhance Nigeria’s passport credibility but also positively impact the economy, tourism, and national security.
The system will enable seamless inter-agency collaboration between the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority and the Nigeria Immigration Service, facilitating more efficient border control and passenger verification.
Juan Carlos Salazar, Secretary General of ICAO, explained that the PKD allows member countries to verify the authenticity of e-passports and other travel documents, ensuring secure and efficient cross-border movement. He underscored the importance of collaboration between national and international authorities to maintain the infrastructure needed for secure travel.
NIS Comptroller General Kemi Nanna Nandap reassured the public of the readiness of the Immigration Service to implement the new technology. “The PKD/PKI will be a game changer for us, and we can’t wait to see it transform the face of things. We are also training our staff in collaboration with IATA to fully utilize the new API/PNR technology,” she said.
With the introduction of the PKI and PKD systems, Nigeria joins other ICAO member states in adopting globally recognized standards for document authentication, paving the way for smoother, more secure international travel and a strengthened border management system.
