President Bola Tinubu has officially commissioned the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Technology Innovation Center (BATTIC), an ultra-modern facility constructed by the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) under the Ministry of Interior. He described the project as a testament to his administration’s commitment to driving impactful change across Nigeria.
The BATTIC aims to enhance Nigeria’s security network, boost investors’ confidence, and facilitate more seamless business operations across the country. The facility is equipped to address key security challenges such as insurgencies, banditry, cybercrimes, smuggling, and other trans-border issues.
Facility Composition and Key Features
The technology center is a state-of-the-art complex that comprises:
- A Data Centre with an 8.3-petabyte capacity for storing and processing vital information.
- A Command and Control Centre for real-time surveillance and intelligence sharing.
- A Visa Approval Centre (VAC) for efficient processing of travel documentation.
- An ECOWAS Biometric Card Production Centre to enhance regional identity management.
- A Solar Farm to ensure uninterrupted power supply.
- A Passport Personalization Centre for advanced passport production and security.
These components position the center as a globally competitive hub for technological innovation in security.
Operational Significance
During the inauguration, President Tinubu highlighted the advanced capabilities of the complex. He stated, “This state-of-the-art complex comprises seven key components that will profile high-risk passengers, monitor suspicious travel patterns, and enhance video surveillance, especially along border areas. It also enables cross-referencing of data with international organizations.”
Tinubu further emphasized the importance of the project in driving technological advancement and enhancing national security. “By 2025, we aim to achieve a new passport regime that recognizes a passport as more than a travel document but as a critical security asset,” he said. He also commended the NIS for its remarkable achievement.
Broader Implications
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, elaborated on the facility’s role in strengthening the nation’s security framework. He noted that the Command and Control Centre ensures that all individuals entering Nigeria are pre-profiled through the Advance Passenger Information System (APIS). This system flags persons of interest at all international airports and prevents imported threats.
“The ultra-modern complex will serve not only as the nerve center of the immigration service but also as a hub for all paramilitary agencies under the Ministry of Interior,” Tunji-Ojo said. He further explained that the data and intelligence gathered will be shared, stored, and processed in real-time to enhance coordination and efficiency.
Achievements and Initial Impact
In just one week of operation, the center’s advanced surveillance technology flagged and led to the arrest of 10 persons of interest. The Passenger Surveillance Centre, equipped with cutting-edge tools like CCTV, drones, and sensors, exemplifies the center’s capacity for real-time monitoring and border security.
The ECOWAS Biometric Card Production Centre is another critical component designed to prevent fraudulent activities that could expose the nation to external threats. Additionally, the immigration service data center will store and manage service exchange data for future consultations, contributing to long-term security strategies.
Nigeria’s Technological Advancement
Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Mr. Sunday Dare, lauded the NIS for successfully completing the project. He emphasized that the facility signifies Nigeria’s compliance with global standards such as the APIS requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
“This modern facility enhances border protection and national security. With capabilities like biometric identification and 24-hour surveillance, Nigeria is now at the forefront of digital security in Africa,” Dare remarked.
Regional and Historical Context
With the launch of BATTIC, Nigeria joins six other African nations with well-integrated passenger security systems. The project’s roots trace back 18 years to the administration of late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, making its completion a significant milestone in the nation’s history.
Call to Action
President Tinubu urged Nigerians to embrace the transformative changes that come with technology. “By optimizing immigration and air travel processes, we can unlock immense opportunities for ease of entry and exit,” he concluded.
The BATTIC represents a bold step towards digital transformation, showcasing Nigeria’s potential to address complex security issues through technology. It reinforces the nation’s commitment to innovation and sets a benchmark for other sectors to follow.
