New Passport policy for Nigerians in Diaspora

First Nigerian in Diaspora lecture series: Nigerian Immigration Commission and Minister of Interior Unveil New Passport Policy for Nigerians in Diaspora

Why the New Passport Policy:

The Nigerian Immigration Commission, in collaboration with the Minister of Interior, Tunji-Ojo, recently introduced a groundbreaking seminar series to address the challenges faced by Nigerians in the diaspora regarding passport applications. The primary focus of the event was to unveil the new passport policy aimed at streamlining processes, increasing efficiency, and aligning with the government’s single identity initiative to prevent identity theft in travel documents.

• To simplify the application process and reduce stress.
• To modernize and enhance effectiveness.
• In alignment with the government’s policy of a single identity.
• To prevent identity theft in travel documents.

Passport Application Statistics:

The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) witnessed a surge in passport applications attributed to the “Japa syndrome”:

• 2021: 1,033,506 applications.
• 2022: 1,597,729 applications.
• 2023: 25,041,300 applications.

Minister of Interior’s Initiatives:
Minister Tunji-Ojo highlighted significant achievements since taking office, including clearing a backlog of 200,000 applications within two weeks. Plans include installing 16 eGates at international airports by March.

Key Features of the New Passport Policy:

• Integration of NIMC and NIS for a seamless application process.
• Elimination of manual data input by using NIN information.
• Contactless biometric systems to prevent identity theft.
• Launched on January 8, with a 3% query rate and 100,000 users to date.

Implementation for Nigerians in Diaspora:

• Decongestion of existing centers.
• Fast-track services using e-passports in Europe under the enhanced passport scheme.
• E8 mandate implementation in the UK.
• New enhanced e-passport facilities launched in Europe on February 8.
• Full implementation in selected missions (Europe, Canada, South Africa, Malaysia) on March 8.
• Expansion to other countries, including the UK, in April 8.

Comptroller General’s Insights:

• Online application process requiring NIN slip, guarantor forms, and bank statement.
• Overcrowding and stressed workers at centers to be alleviated.
• Complete the entire process online by uploading documents.

Questions and Answers Session:

Notable insights from the Q&A session included clarifications on the Manchester office, interventions, NIN challenges, special agents at airports, and updates on future series.

1. What is the Status of the Nigerian Manchester Office?

The Manchester office cannot currently be used for immigration services, as Nigerian immigration services are restricted to operations within the Embassy.

2. Can we expect more interventions?

NIN poses a challenge for passport processing due to discrepancies in names. The process is time-consuming in the US, but interventions have been conducted in Canada and the USA. Plans are underway to conduct interventions in the UK.

3. Who are the people in mufti checking passports at the airport?

Individuals in mufti checking passports at airport entries and exits before handing them over to immigration officers are special agents identifying persons of interest. This process is associated with the International Civil Aviation Commission.

4. What about Change of Data and the reduction of processing time?

All offices must obtain approval from the Comptroller General’s office for security purposes before implementing any changes to data.

6. Traveling to Nigeria with an expired passport?

Airlines have been encouraged to allow Nigerians with expired passports entry to Nigeria. However, some airlines may not permit entry without a valid visa. To address this, individuals can apply for an e-visa or visa on arrival online. Additionally, applying for an e-passport is recommended: Nigeria HC.

7. When is the next series?

The next series is scheduled for August, promising continued engagement and updates on the ongoing initiatives and improvements for Nigerians in the diaspora.

For More Information:

• Visit NIDCOM: Nidcom.gov.ng
• Nigerian Embassy: nigeriahc.org.uk
• Apply for Passport Renewal Online: immigration.gov.ng
• Requirements for Applying for New Passport: Nigeria HC

The seminar concluded with a commitment to future engagements, with the second series scheduled for August. The ongoing efforts aim to address challenges faced by Nigerians in the diaspora and enhance the overall passport application experience.