In a bid to enhance identification measures, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has declared that every Nigerian must possess an international passport for both local and international identification purposes.
Speaking at a press briefing in Ilorin, Aminu Shamsuddin, the Comptroller of Immigration for Kwara Command, emphasized that the NIS is committed to ensuring that all Nigerians possess international passports. This initiative is led by the Controller-General of NIS, Caroline Adepoju, who has implemented various measures to facilitate passport acquisition for all citizens.
One significant effort includes the approval of a Passport Front Office in Offa Local Government Area of Kwara, aimed at providing easier access to passport services and reducing congestion at the Ilorin office. Shamsuddin highlighted the importance of the passport as a fundamental means of identification, emphasizing its pivotal role in revealing an individual’s information and identity, both domestically and internationally.
Moreover, he stressed that a person’s identity and information can be easily accessed through a registered phone number once they hold an international passport. Additionally, Shamsuddin emphasized that the passport is universally recognized, serving as the primary document required for entry into any country, making it essential for verifying an individual’s information and criminal record.
Shamsuddin also noted the increasing daily applications for passports and assured the public that the NIS is dedicated to alleviating the associated challenges by enhancing its services. He highlighted the dynamic nature of passport issuance, indicating continuous improvements to simplify the application process for individuals. The NIS has introduced innovations such as the ability to download passport applications from home and the flexibility to choose preferred locations for capturing and collecting passports.
Furthermore, Shamsuddin emphasized the elimination of third-party involvement in the registration process to prevent issues like incorrect name spellings and applicant information. He called for media support, underscoring the NIS’s commitment to educating the public on the significance of passport application, renewal, and other related services.
The NIS is steadfast in its efforts to streamline the passport acquisition process and uphold global standards, ensuring that Nigerian passports remain universally acceptable. Through these initiatives, the NIS aims to promote a seamless and efficient passport acquisition experience for all Nigerian citizens.
