The Interior Minister, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has introduced a revolutionary contactless system set to streamline the experience for applicants.
The initiative, announced during the inaugural 2024 Diaspora Webinar Lecture Series hosted by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), marks a significant step towards modernizing service delivery within the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS).
The Minister, echoing directives from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, emphasized the government’s commitment to providing efficient and seamless services to citizens. Effective from March 8th, 2024, Nigerians will benefit from a swift passport application process, with the entire procedure expected to take no more than seven to 10 minutes.
This reform aligns with efforts to revamp the NIS and elevate service standards. Among the notable achievements highlighted by the Minister are the clearance of over 200,000 passport backlogs within a remarkably short timeframe and the implementation of E-Gates at international airports to streamline entry and exit procedures.
Central to the new system is the utilization of technology, where applicants will only require their National Identification Number (NIN) for passport applications and biometrics. Leveraging an automated system, data will be seamlessly retrieved from the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) database, mitigating the risk of identity fraud and simplifying the application process.
Furthermore, plans are underway to automate passport enrollment, enabling online applications, biometric capture, and home delivery of passports, eliminating the need for physical visits to passport offices.
Addressing concerns raised by participants across continents regarding current challenges in passport application and delivery, the Minister assured prompt resolutions, underscoring the government’s unwavering commitment to citizen satisfaction.
Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NIDCOM, commended the Minister’s initiatives, emphasizing the importance of the Diaspora Lecture Series in keeping Nigerians abroad abreast of the government’s programs and reforms.
Caroline Wura-Ola Adepoju, the Comptroller General of the Nigerian Immigration Service, emphasized the transformative impact of the new process in reducing human interaction, thereby enhancing efficiency and saving time for both applicants and immigration personnel.
