In a significant move to ease passport renewal for Nigerians abroad, the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) is set to launch a contactless passport application solution in Europe, with the United Kingdom serving as the coordinating center. The groundbreaking initiative, scheduled for February 7, was announced by the Comptroller General of NIS, Mrs. Kemi Nanna Nandap, during a courtesy visit to the Chairman/CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
According to Nandap, the digital system will allow Nigerians in the diaspora to apply for and renew their passports online from the comfort of their homes. "This initiative will simplify the passport application process, save time, and reduce the financial burden associated with traveling long distances for passport renewal," she stated. However, she clarified that the service is strictly for renewals and does not cover fresh applicants or minors. She also emphasized that Nigerians living abroad can begin the renewal process a year before their passport expires.
Commending NiDCOM for its unwavering support in promoting awareness of NIS programs and policies, Nandap highlighted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all relevant agencies to make life easier for Nigerians abroad. She further disclosed that the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji Ojo, has approved the establishment of a passport processing facility in New York to tackle the backlog of applications. Additionally, she revealed plans to open passport front offices in other parts of the United States and various countries.
Reacting to the development, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa lauded the initiative, describing it as a major leap towards a seamless, secure, and efficient passport renewal process for Nigerians overseas. "The launch of the contactless passport application solution in Europe is a significant step in ensuring that Nigerians in the diaspora receive improved services. NiDCOM will continue to support and collaborate with the NIS to guarantee the success of this initiative," she stated.
She also commended the Interior Minister and the NIS Comptroller General for their visionary approach, noting that the contactless application has already been introduced in Canada to widespread approval from Nigerians residing there.
With this new development, the NIS is taking a bold step in leveraging technology to provide hassle-free services, marking a new era for passport processing for Nigerians in the diaspora.
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