The Federal Government says seven suspected Boko Haram and ISWAP commanders returning from the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage were arrested through Nigeria’s integrated NIN verification system before being handed over to the DSS.
Former Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) commanders attempting to re-enter Nigeria after performing the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage were arrested through the country’s integrated National Identification Number (NIN) verification system, the Federal Government has revealed.
Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo disclosed that seven known Boko Haram and ISWAP commanders were apprehended at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport in Katsina State shortly after arriving from Saudi Arabia.
Speaking after President Bola Tinubu signed the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act 2026 into law, Tunji-Ojo said the arrests demonstrated the growing effectiveness of Nigeria’s digital identity infrastructure in strengthening national security.
“I’m happy to tell you that even last week, Thursday, seven of the known commanders of Boko Haram and ISWAP at the point of coming back from Mecca were arrested in Katsina Airport and were handed over to the DSS,” the minister said.
According to him, the suspects were identified through the integration of Nigeria’s National Identification Number (NIN) database with the Nigeria Immigration Service, INTERPOL and other international security intelligence platforms.
He explained that the collaboration enables security agencies to instantly flag individuals on security watchlists whenever they attempt to enter or leave the country through official border posts.
Tunji-Ojo said the development highlights the importance of the country’s identity management reforms, noting that the NIN has become a critical tool in tracking criminal suspects and enhancing national security.
“The NIN has become more than just an identity number. It is now a major security tool that helps us identify and intercept persons of interest,” he said.
Following their arrest, the seven suspects were immediately handed over to the Department of State Services (DSS) for further investigation.
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