Nigeria is launching a Digital Travel Certificate (DTC) to enhance border security and simplify the travel process, according to the Minister of Interior.

Nigeria is preparing to introduce a Digital Travel Certificate (DTC) to enhance border security and streamline the travel experience.

This initiative, announced by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji Ojo, aligns with international standards and aims to make international travel easier and more secure.

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The DTC will serve as a digital identity for travellers, incorporating facial recognition, biographical data, and security features. It will allow for quick and accurate verification of a traveller’s identity and vaccination status.

The certificate may replace traditional passports and represents a significant step in modernising Nigeria’s travel infrastructure.

The announcement was made at a two-day capacity-building event for Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) officers on Advanced Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) solutions.

These technologies will enable more efficient data collection from airlines, helping to enhance border control and improve security measures at Nigeria’s airports.

With the API and PNR systems, the NIS can better track incoming passengers, detect cross-border crimes, and respond proactively to potential threats.

Tunji Ojo emphasised Nigeria’s commitment to collaborating with international partners, including the International Air Transport Association (IATA), to deploy cutting-edge border control solutions.

The DTC is part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to protect its borders and ensure a seamless travel experience.

Controller General of NIS, Kemi Nana Nandap, praised the training program for officers, which focused on the implementation of the API and PNR systems.

She highlighted that these technologies would make border control more efficient and reduce clearance times for passengers, enhancing overall security at Nigeria’s borders.