The Nigerian government and the Kingdom of the Netherlands have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation regarding migration and human smuggling. This renewed focus was highlighted by the Dutch Repatriation and Departure Service donating a suite of equipment to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) Hostmanship Unit in Abuja.
The NIS utilizes the Hostmanship program, created alongside the Dutch Ministry of Justice and Security, to train officers in delivering services with empathy, professionalism, and dignity. The donation included various technological assets, such as a 24 KVA solar inverter system, lithium batteries, smart televisions, and computing equipment designed to bolster the unit’s operational capacity.
Comptroller General of Immigration Kemi Nandap praised the contribution, framing it as a vital investment in human capital and institutional standards. She noted that the Hostmanship Unit has already successfully integrated guest-centered protocols throughout the service. Nandap pledged that the equipment would be maintained carefully to ensure the highest quality of public service.
Ronnald Sonnemans, Charge d’Affaires at the Dutch Embassy, noted his observation of the positive changes within the NIS since the training began. He emphasized the Netherlands’ ongoing dedication to professionalizing Nigerian border management.
Jan-Willem Keuninck, a senior adviser from the Dutch justice sector, reflected on the 25-year working relationship between the two nations. He highlighted that several NIS officers are already certified trainers, with additional executive programs planned for September. ACI Samson Thomas, the NIS Hostmanship Coordinator, described the gift as a powerful symbol of the friendship and trust established between the two organizations.
