Nigeria’s integrated identity and immigration databases have enabled security agencies to track and apprehend seven suspected commanders from Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). The suspects were intercepted upon returning from the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.
According to federal officials, law enforcement personnel detained the individuals at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport in Katsina immediately after their arrival last Thursday. The authorities subsequently transferred the suspects to Abuja for further questioning.
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Government confirms database synchronisation
Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, disclosed the operational milestone in Abuja. The announcement followed the executive assent of Bola Tinubu, the President, to the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act 2026. Related News Four days to feared anti immigration protests, South Africa’s Cyril Ramaphosa seeking help from local Chiefs Why Nigeria's biggest firms are sitting on record cash instead of expanding Nigeria draws first tranche of $5bn UAE loan to lower budget financing costs
