By: Reporter
The National Joint Youths and Students Stakeholders have described the decision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to appoint Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo as the Minister of Interior one year ago as a blessing to the nation and very transformative decision.
The youths groups said giant strides of the Minister has brought to unimaginable reforms to the operations of the ministry of interior within his one year in office, noting that Tunji-Ojo has transformed the ministry from declaring only public holidays to impactful public office.
The groups including Akoko Youth Forum (AYF), Niger Delta Youth Movement (NDYM), National Association of Ondo State Students (NAOSS), National Association of Nigeria Students (NANS) as well as the Minister’s SA on youths Affairs, Com. Moshood Olawale, said Tunji-Ojo’s performance as impressive and encouraging for the nation’s youths and students.
The students and youths groups who gave the commendation at a press conference held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre in Akure, said his outstanding performance in his first year as Minister of Interior has led to smart and quick service delivery at various paramilitary agencies under the ministry especially issuance and renewal of passports.
Addressing newsmen on behalf of the groups, Ifon Daniel Samuel, said one of the most remarkable achievements under his stewardship has been the unprecedented reforms within the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).
Samuel Ifon specifically thanked President Tinubu for the appointment of a youthful personality to man a sensitive office like the Ministry of Interior, in which he had not disappointed so far.
He said, “Inheriting a backlog of 204,332 passport applications, Honorable Tunji-Ojo did not shy away from this daunting challenge. Instead, with a clear vision and decisive action, he orchestrated the clearance of this backlog within an astounding three-week period.
“This feat, by all standards, is a testament to his commitment to efficiency and service delivery. Through this singular achievement, he has restored faith in the NIS, reaffirming its capacity to meet the needs of Nigerian citizens with diligence and competence.
“But Honorable Tunji-Ojo’s achievements do not end there. His leadership has ushered in a new era of modernized and efficient service delivery in the immigration sector. With his pledge to ensure that passport applications will now be processed within two weeks starting February 2025, he has set a new standard for responsiveness and reliability. Additionally, the introduction of home and office delivery services for passports represents a forward-thinking approach that prioritizes convenience and accessibility for all Nigerians.”
On a specific note, he said the initiative to allow personal uploads of passport photographs further streamlines the process, making it more user-friendly and efficient, and eliminating unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.
“Under his leadership, the Ministry of Interior has not only excelled in service delivery but has also demonstrated fiscal responsibility by saving the government millions of naira through an automated application system. These reforms underscore Honorable Tunji-Ojo’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and the prudent management of public resources.
He also appreciated President Bola Tinubu for appointing Tunji-Ojo as Minister of Interior, saying the choice has proven to be a masterstroke, as the Ministry has been rejuvenated and has become a beacon of hope for Nigeria youths.
“When Honorable Tunji-Ojo was appointed to the position of Minister of Interior, the expectations were high. As a young and dynamic leader, many looked to him to bring a fresh perspective and innovative solutions to the challenges facing the Ministry. Today, it is evident that he has not only met these expectations but has far exceeded them.
“As young Nigerians, we find in Honorable Tunji-Ojo a leader who not only represents our aspirations but also delivers on his promises. He has shown that with dedication, vision, and hard work, the youth can indeed drive meaningful change in our society. The Ministry of Interior, under his guidance, has not disappointed us, and we are confident that his continued leadership will only bring more progress and innovation.”
