All is set for the Nigerian Immigration Service to begin a contactless passport application system in Europe, with the United Kingdom serving as the coordinating centre.
The initiative, scheduled for unveiling on February 7, will allow Nigerians in the diaspora to renew their passports online without visiting physical offices.
The Comptroller General of the NIS, Kemi Nandap, made the announcement during a courtesy visit to the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, in Abuja this Tuesday.
Nandap, in a statement signed by the NiDCOM spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, explained that the initiative aims to simplify the passport renewal process for Nigerians abroad, saving time and reducing travel costs.
However, she clarified that the system is only for passport renewals and does not apply to first-time applicants or minors.
Nandap emphasised that Nigerians living abroad can initiate the renewal process up to a year before their passport’s expiration.
“This initiative set for launch on 7th of February 2025 will enable Nigerians in the Diaspora to apply for and renew their passports online from the comfort of their homes,” she was quoted saying.
She commended NiDCOM for its role in creating awareness about programs that benefit Nigerians in the diaspora.
The Comptroller General also highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s directive to ease passport processing for Nigerians abroad.
She revealed that the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has approved a new passport processing facility in New York to address backlogs, with plans to open additional offices in the U.S. and other countries.
Dabiri-Erewa welcomed the development, describing it as a significant step towards more efficient and secure passport processing for Nigerians overseas.
She affirmed NiDCOM’s commitment to supporting and monitoring the initiative.
“The launch of the contactless passport application solution in Europe is a significant step towards efficient, secure, and convenient travel document management for Nigerians in the diaspora.
“NiDCOM will continue to support, monitor and collaborate with the NIS to ensure the success of this initiative” the NiDCOM boss was quoted saying.
The contactless passport application system was first introduced in Canada, where it received positive feedback from Nigerians.
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