The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has provided a crucial update on the automated issuance of Nigerian passports. According to Wura-Ola Adepoju, the Comptroller-General of NIS, all passport applicants are required to visit the NIS office for biometrics until March 8, 2024.
During an interview with Channels Television, Adepoju revealed that despite the automation efforts, new and renewal applicants must still undergo the biometric process until March 2024. She emphasized that after this transition period, the passport application process is expected to become 100% contactless.
Furthermore, Adepoju highlighted that the turnaround time for Nigerians to receive their passports has been reduced to two weeks, signifying an improvement in the efficiency of the passport issuance system.
Looking ahead, she stated, “Our first-time applicants still need to go to our offices for biometrics; from March 8, 2024, everyone applying for a Nigerian passport, especially for renewal, will require a contactless application because we already have their data, so from the comfort of their homes, they can apply.”
This modernization initiative aligns with the announcement made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on January 8, 2024, regarding the commencement of passport automation.
The NIS reported a significant influx of passport applications following the introduction of automation. From 8th to 21st January, the service received 32,462 applications, with only 4% being queried for various reasons.
The ongoing transition towards a more efficient and technology-driven passport issuance system demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to enhancing service delivery and embracing digital transformation in governance. As the NIS progresses towards a fully contactless application process, it aims to streamline and simplify the passport issuance experience for all Nigerians.
