BUNMI TUNJI-OJO, COURAGE PERSONIFIED
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BUNMI TUNJI-OJO, COURAGE PERSONIFIED
By Babatunde Ogundare, Esq
In the tapestry of Nigeria’s evolving narrative, few figures stand out as vividly as the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. Born on May 1, 1982, in Oyin-Akoko, Ondo State, the multiple award-winning Minister embodies the essence of courage, modernism, and dogged commitment to national and global development.
As the nation celebrates his birthday, it is fitting to reflect on his remarkable journey and the indelible mark he has left on Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.
Tunji-Ojo’s story is one of resilience and vision. From his early days as Senior Prefect at FUTA Staff Secondary School, Akure, to earning degrees in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Digital Communication, and Networking, his academic pursuits laid the foundation for a career steeped in innovation.
With more than 18 professional ICT certifications, including being one of the United Kingdom’s first certified ethical hackers, Tunji-Ojo’s expertise in digital transformation became a cornerstone of his contributions to Nigeria.
At just 24, he became the CEO of Matrix IT Solutions Ltd., consulting for high-profile clients such as NNPC, PTDF, NSIA, NCDMB, JAMB, and the World Bank. His work in digital transformation not only showcased his technical prowess but also underscored his ability to envision and execute solutions that drive progress.
The Honourable Minister’s tenure in the House of Representatives remains a defining chapter in legislative excellence and progressive leadership. Representing Akoko North East/Akoko North West Federal Constituency of Ondo State, he distinguished himself as a lawmaker deeply committed to national development, transparency, and youth empowerment.
As Chairman of the House Committee on Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Hon. Tunji-Ojo demonstrated unmatched courage and integrity by spearheading critical oversight functions that brought much-needed reforms to the commission.
His efforts in championing accountability and institutional transparency earned him widespread respect across the political spectrum and positioned him as a beacon of hope for a new generation of Nigerian leaders.
Beyond his notable oversight achievements, Dr. Tunji-Ojo was instrumental in sponsoring and supporting bills that targeted infrastructural development, improved education, enhanced digital innovation, and strengthened good governance.
His legislative interventions were marked by a deep understanding of grassroots needs and a bold vision for a better Nigeria. Throughout his time in the House, he remained a vocal advocate for equity, justice, and national cohesion, leaving behind a legacy of service defined by courage, impact, and transformative leadership.
His remarkable record at the legislature laid a strong foundation for his subsequent appointment as Minister of Interior, where he continues to bring the same passion, energy, and excellence to national governance.
Since assuming office as Minister of Interior in August 2023, Tunji-Ojo has rapidly transformed the ministry into a dynamic powerhouse of transformation.
Under his enthusiastic leadership, the Ministry of Interior has witnessed unprecedented advancements, from the introduction of the e-Visa system to the automation of passport applications.
These initiatives have not only enhanced efficiency but also restored public trust in government processes.
The youthful Minister has demonstrated zest, an uncommon zeal for excellence, a profound sense of duty, and a drive that have significantly advanced the mandates of the Ministry of Interior and its agencies.
His leadership style—anchored on transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness—has rejuvenated agencies under the Ministry, enhancing their capacity to deliver on their various core mandates, heavily bordering on national security. His understanding of the pivotal role the various agencies under his superintendence play in national security and social stability continues to shape progressive policies that positively impact internal security positively.
Beyond policy and administrative successes, the Honourable Minister has proven to be a compassionate leader who genuinely cares for the welfare of his personnel. His engagements are marked by empathy, respect for human dignity, and a constant push for excellence—qualities that resonate deeply with the values we strive to uphold as a society.
One of his most notable achievements is the clearance of over 204,000 passport backlogs within his first few months in office. This feat, coupled with the deployment of e-Gates across international airports, has positioned Nigeria as a leader in digital identity and governance.
His efforts in border management, including the commissioning of operational vehicles and the establishment of a state-of-the-art Command and Control Centre, have reduce suffering for teeming Nigerian and also strengthened national security.
The Honourable Minister’s commitment to justice reform is equally commendable. His drive to decongest correctional facilities has led to the release of 4,068 low-risk inmates, saving the government over ₦3 billion annually in feeding costs.
Additionally, his rehabilitation of correctional centres has restored dignity and functionality to Nigeria’s penal system. This is evident in the way and manner he transformed the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje, FCT, as well as other centres to world-class standard.
Under his leadership, the approval for the relocation of 29 custodial centres, which have been compromised by urbanization, signals a decisive move toward humane and secure correctional facilities. He has also overseen the commissioning of operational vehicles for the transportation of inmates, and significantly improved the Correctional Information Management System (CIMS), enabling better case management and transparency in inmate rehabilitation.
A notable policy shift has been the introduction of professional and standardized examinations for the promotion of senior officers across paramilitary services — a move that has restored meritocracy and boosted morale within the ranks.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo’s impact extends beyond immigrations and Corrections into broader internal security and safety.
The repositioning of the private guard security sector for enhanced professionalism and accountability shows his dedication to ensuring that all layers of security contribute meaningfully to national safety. The launch of the Safe School Initiative, Agro Rangers, and Mining Marshals are further testaments to his proactive approach in addressing contemporary threats such as school abductions and illegal mining.
Each of these efforts reflects a deliberate policy framework that prioritizes lives, livelihoods, and national assets through structured and responsive interventions.
Perhaps one of his most groundbreaking initiatives is the ongoing institutional reform of the Federal Fire Service (FFS), now being transformed into a world-class fire and emergency management agency. With an expanded focus on safety, emergency response, and revenue generations, this reform is anchored by the construction of a modern Fire Academy in Sheda, Abuja.
Furthermore, the introduction of a unified Paramilitary Academy to harmonize training for internal security agencies underscores his commitment to capacity building and inter-agency synergy.
Beyond his official obligations, the Honourable Minister’s philanthropic endeavors reflect the deep-seated potential of the Nigeria’s youth. His leadership has inspired a new generation to embrace responsibility and courage as drivers of national development.
By promoting merit and morale within the Ministry of Interior and its agencies, he has demonstrated that excellence is achievable through dedication and integrity.
The appointment of Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo as Minister of Interior is a bold and commendable testament to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering belief in the capacity and vibrancy of Nigerian youths.
By entrusting such a critical national portfolio to a young and dynamic leader, the President has not only demonstrated his commitment to inclusive governance but also inspired a generation to dream beyond boundaries.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo’s track record of innovation, energy, and dedication to public service reflects the kind of progressive leadership the country needs to drive reforms and secure the future. This appointment sends a strong message that youthfulness, when combined with competence and vision, can be a powerful force for national transformation.
As Nigeria celebrates his birthday, it is also an opportunity to recognize the role of the nation’s youth in shaping its future. The Honourable Minister’s journey serves as a testament to the fact that courage and innovation are not bound by age or circumstance.
His achievements remind us that Nigeria’s youth are not only capable but also essential in driving national growth and development.
There is no doubt that Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo is more than a minister; he is a symbol of courage, resilience, and quality leadership. His contributions to Nigeria’s progress are a beacon of hope for a nation hungry for change. As we celebrate his birthday, let us also celebrate the spirit of Nigeria’s youth—the architects of a brighter tomorrow.
Babatunde Ogundare Esq, Special Adviser on Correctional Service Reforms to the Honourable Minister of Interior writes from Abuja.
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