The Federal Government has intensified security measures at all borders in preparation for the nationwide protests against bad governance, scheduled to start on August 1st.

Kemi Nandap, the Comptroller General of Immigration Service, has instructed all Zonal Heads, State Command Comptrollers, and Divisional Immigration Officers (DIOS) to enhance surveillance and vigilance at the country’s borders. According to Service Spokesman DCI Kenneth Udo, this initiative aims to prevent foreign elements from entering Nigeria to participate in the protests.

In response, the Immigration Service has temporarily suspended all leave applications for its officers. Nandap emphasized the need for utmost professionalism and patriotism in their duties. “The Comptroller General noted that, in keeping with the responsibility of safeguarding the nation’s gateways placed on the shoulders of the Service, officers, especially Heads of Border Commands, are tasked to rise to the occasion by ensuring that no foreign element can take advantage of the protest to destabilize the country,” the statement read.

She further directed the temporary suspension of all leave applications and charged officers to demonstrate the highest levels of professionalism and patriotism, reminding them that Nigeria is the only country they have.

“The CGIS assures all Nigerians of the service’s preparedness to safeguard the nation’s borders towards enhancing national security,” the statement added.

These measures come as the country braces for the planned protests, underscoring the government’s commitment to maintaining order and security during this period of civil unrest.