Immigration Comptroller Visits Asagba Of Asaba, Seeks Partnership On Security
Royal Reception for Immigration Comptroller
THE Comptroller of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Delta State Command, Mrs. Grace C. Ozodinobi, PSC, on 11 February 2026, paid a courtesy visit to His Royal Majesty, Asagba Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, SAN, OON, at his palace in Asaba.
The visit, described as both symbolic and strategic, brought together traditional authority and federal security leadership in a move aimed at strengthening collaboration between the Immigration Service and the host community.
Welcoming the Comptroller and her entourage, the Asagba congratulated Mrs. Ozodinobi on her posting to Delta State, acknowledging her track record of diligence and professionalism in service.
“You have distinguished yourself through hard work and dedication,” the monarch said. “Build a legacy that history can also reckon that you’re the best. You came, you saw, and you conquered.”
The royal father stressed the importance of purposeful leadership, urging the Comptroller to leave behind measurable achievements that would enhance the image and operations of the Service in the state.
Focus on Asaba Airport Development
Beyond security matters, the meeting also touched on infrastructure development, particularly the future of the Asaba International Airport. The Asagba disclosed ongoing discussions with the Minister of Aviation, Hon. Festus Keyamo, and the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, on upgrading the airport to meet international standards.
He emphasized that the airport holds strategic value for the economic growth of Asaba and Delta State at large, noting that improving its facilities and global compliance would attract investment, tourism, and business expansion.
The monarch reiterated his commitment to seeing the airport development project through, adding that collaboration among federal agencies, the state government, and traditional institutions would be critical to achieving that goal.
Immigration Service’s Mandate and Community Engagement
In her remarks, Mrs. Ozodinobi expressed appreciation for the warm reception accorded her by the royal palace and the Asaba community. She described the visit as an opportunity to formally introduce herself and strengthen institutional ties with traditional leadership.
The Comptroller briefed the monarch on the key responsibilities of the Nigeria Immigration Service, including efforts to combat human trafficking, curb irregular migration, secure Nigeria’s borders, and streamline the issuance of enhanced electronic passports.
She noted that the Service remains committed to modernizing its operations through technology-driven systems designed to improve efficiency and security.
Mrs. Ozodinobi also underscored the importance of community cooperation in addressing migration-related crimes, particularly human trafficking and illegal border movements. She sought the monarch’s blessings and pledged to work closely with community leaders to enhance public awareness and intelligence sharing.
Strengthening Security Through Partnership
Observers at the palace described the visit as a reaffirmation of the synergy between traditional institutions and security agencies in promoting peace and development.
The engagement highlighted the role of traditional rulers as custodians of community values and key stakeholders in governance and security matters. By fostering collaboration, both parties signaled a shared commitment to safeguarding residents while supporting developmental initiatives.
As the Delta State Command of the Nigeria Immigration Service continues to expand its operational reach, the partnership with the Asaba monarchy is expected to bolster efforts aimed at improving border management, documentation services, and community-based intelligence gathering.
The courtesy visit concluded with expressions of goodwill and mutual assurances of sustained cooperation in advancing security and development objectives in Asaba and beyond.
