The Chief Immigration Officer of Sierra Leone, Dr. Moses Tifa Bayo, has outlined major reforms currently underway at the Immigration Department, including a proposal to transition the institution into a paramilitary structure for more efficient border management.
Speaking in an exclusive interview, Dr. Tifa Bayo said his appointment in March this year came with a clear mandate from President Bio to reform immigration services nationwide. “All over the world, immigration functions under a paramilitary structure because of its crucial role in border control. We want to adopt that model to enhance effectiveness,” Dr. Tifa Bayo explained. On the issue of passport delays, the Chief Immigration Officer assured the public that the processing time has been drastically reduced to two weeks, and that passports are currently available. He clarified that the official cost remains $100, converted to its equivalent in Leones.
Responding to questions about passport eligibility for non-citizens, Dr. Tifa Bayo said the law allows several categories of non-Sierra Leoneans to obtain passports, including:
– Individuals granted citizenship by Presidential Authority
– Naturalized citizens
– Children of Sierra Leonean descent born abroad
– Foreign nationals working in Sierra Leonean diplomatic missions.
He stressed that a passport is primarily a travel document, not necessarily proof of nationality.
Addressing public challenges, Dr. Tifa Bayo urged citizens to engage directly with the Immigration Office for reliable information.
“The office is always open to the public. We encourage inquiries and are committed to delivering transparent and efficient service,” he concluded.
Credit: RANSFORD WRIGHT