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 country’s global passport ranking, easing international travel, and boosting internal security.
The announcement was made by Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during the Country Signing Certificate Authority (CSCA) Import Ceremony in Montreal, Canada, alongside Kemi Nanna Nandap, Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).
Tunji-Ojo emphasized that this initiative is part of the government’s efforts to modernize border control, reduce waiting times at airports, and enhance the overall travel experience for Nigerians and visitors. “The era of endless waits and manual passport verification at airports globally is over,” the Minister declared.
The move is expected to positively impact Nigeria’s economy, tourism, and national security. The PKD enables countries to authenticate e-passports and travel documents, ensuring compliance with international standards. Juan Carlos Salazar, Secretary General of ICAO, highlighted the importance of national and international collaboration to make the system effective.
Comptroller General Nandap confirmed that the NIS is ready for full implementation, with staff undergoing training in collaboration with the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
The PKD/PKI system will enhance the security of Nigeria’s travel documents and streamline border processes, ultimately elevating the country’s global standing in aviation security and ease of travel.
