Nigeria joins ICAO public key directory to boost passport ranking, border security
Kunle Sanni
Nigeria has officially enrolled in the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Public Key Directory (PKD) and Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), a move aimed at improving the global ranking of Nigeria’s international passport, facilitating easier travel, and enhancing national security.
Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo announced the development during an Import Ceremony of the Country Signing Certificate Authority (CSCA) at ICAO headquarters in Montreal.
The ceremony, attended by the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nanna Nandap, marks a significant step in Nigeria’s efforts to modernize its border control systems.
Speaking after the event, Minister Tunji-Ojo highlighted the government’s commitment to upgrading security measures and streamlining processes at airports and other entry points, both domestically and internationally.
The enrollment in ICAO’s PKD is expected to significantly reduce waiting times for travelers, enhancing overall efficiency in immigration procedures.
“Our government is particular about increasing efficiency and enhancing the overall travel experience for Nigerians and international visitors alike,” Tunji-Ojo said.
“With our effort on Border Governance and Management, Nigerians can be assured that the era of endless wait and manual verification at airports across the globe is over. The President is constantly seeking means to enable growth and develop the country. The PKI / PKD is another measure to increase our global ranking and ease of doing business.”
The Minister added that the new development, among other reviewed policies of the government, is expected to have a positive impact on the economy, tourism, and national security.
“While we strongly believe this will impact the tourism ecosystem, it will also play a critical role in facilitating inter-agency collaboration, especially between the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority and the leading implementation agency, the Nigeria Immigration Service.”
Explaining the role of the system, Juan Carlos Salazar, Secretary General of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), noted that Public Key Directory (PKD), enables the sharing of authentic travel documents among member states across the world.
He stressed, however, that national and international collaboration was vital as the infrastructure required multiple authorities to play their part in the process of verification and authentication of passport and travel document data.
Speaking on the readiness of the service, Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nandap, stated that necessary infrastructure to drive the new technology is in place as full implementation begins.
“The PKD/PKI will be a game changer for us, and we can’t wait to see it transform the face of things. In partnership with IATA, we are currently training our staff so that they understand the full modules of the new technology of API/PNR ” she said.
Managed by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the PKD allows countries to check the authenticity of e-passports and other travel documents when travellers cross borders.
Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) is a system that uses digital certificates and public-private key pairs to ensure secure communication, data integrity, and authentication of documents.
Among other things, this development will ensure enhanced security in strict compliance with international standards and ease of verification.
