In his tribute, Ukam noted that the chairman’s untimely death came as a profound shock to both himself and the entire Commission, especially given Yusuf’s vibrant energy and deep commitment to moving the agency forward. He emphasized that the late chairman’s passing is particularly heartbreaking due to the ambitious plans and visions he held for the institution’s future, having already shown immense promise for purposeful leadership during his brief tenure.

Mourning Yusuf as an impactful team player who consistently showed care, support, and goodwill toward his colleagues, Ukam extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, staff, and management of the NPC. Describing him as a “rare gem,” the commissioner urged everyone to accept the loss as the will of the Almighty, while offering prayers for the forgiveness of the deceased’s shortcomings, the peaceful repose of his soul, and the strength for the family, colleagues, and the nation to bear the tragic vacuum left behind.

Addressing Atiku’s remarks regarding long-standing border closures and trade disruptions, the Minister—whose portfolio oversees the Nigeria Immigration Service—clarified that the nation’s borders are not actually closed and therefore cannot be reopened.

Detailing the timeline of past and recent reopenings, Tunji-Ojo noted:

• Key crossings like Seme, Illela, Maigatari, and Mfum were reopened on December 16, 2020.

• Idiroko and Ikom resumed commercial operations on April 20, 2022.

• Kebbi State’s Kamba and Tsamiya borders—connecting to Benin and Niger Republics—were reopened under the current administration in February 2026.

Addressing specific references to borders shared with Chad, Cameroon, Niger, and Benin, the Minister explained that long-term closures at crossings like Banki and Amchidé stem from security measures introduced in 2014 to combat Boko Haram, rather than the 2019 trade regulations. He pointed out that Fotokol and Gambaru subsequently reopened in 2021 following joint regional security stabilization efforts. Conflating counter-insurgency security protocols with trade regulations misrepresents the facts.

Tunji-Ojo added that certain northern crossings maintain tighter restrictions as a calculated security safeguard against banditry and residual insurgency, protecting local communities and traders from heightened risks rather than representing neglect. Modern border management requires balancing security, rigorous documentation, customs compliance, and controlled trade rather than choosing between absolute closure and unmonitored movement.

Concluding his statement, the Minister urged political figures to avoid rewriting recent history, challenging Atiku to present a distinct alternative policy rather than conflating independent trade, security, and infrastructure challenges.