- Mariam Taofeek-Bakare | Premier World News
Security operatives have arrested seven alleged senior commanders of Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province [ISWAP] at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport in Katsina.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, confirmed the development on Friday at the State House in Abuja, moments after President Bola Tinubu assented to the National Identity Management Commission Act 2026.
According to the Minister, the individuals were intercepted on Thursday as they arrived from the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.
They were subsequently transferred to the Department of State Services [DSS] for further investigation.
Mr. Tunji-Ojo said the arrests were made possible by Nigeria’s upgraded digital identity and border security systems.
He noted that NIMC’s biometric database is now linked with immigration records and international security networks, including Interpol, allowing for real-time detection of persons of interest.
“We no longer operate disconnected systems. Today, you cannot obtain a Nigerian passport without verification through NIMC”, the Minister stated.
The new NIMC law repeals the 2007 Act and positions the Commission as the central authority for Nigeria’s digital identification, public key infrastructure and secure data exchange across government and approved private platforms.
The Minister did not release the names of the suspects or confirm if they were on prior security watchlists, how they secured travel documents, or if charges have been filed.
Independent confirmation from the DSS and Nigeria Immigration Service was not available at the time of filing.
The disclosure also comes amid public concerns over Hajj screening procedures, following recent allegations regarding sponsorship of pilgrims in Katsina State.
The state government has denied sponsoring any individuals linked to banditry, as authorities say additional information on the suspects and possible prosecution will be provided in the coming days.
>>> Below is the video link of the Minister of Interior’s affirmation regarding the arrest: 👇
