The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) is set to introduce a contactless passport application system in Europe, with the United Kingdom serving as the coordinating hub.
The initiative, scheduled for launch on February 7, 2025, will enable Nigerians in the diaspora to renew their passports online without visiting physical offices.
Comptroller General of the NIS, Kemi Nandap, announced the development during a courtesy visit to the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, in Abuja.
In a statement signed by NiDCOM spokesperson Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Nandap explained that the initiative is designed to simplify passport renewal, reducing travel costs and saving time for Nigerians abroad.
However, she clarified that the system applies only to passport renewals and excludes first-time applicants and minors. Nigerians living overseas will be able to 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,” Nandap was quoted as saying.
She also commended NiDCOM for raising awareness about programs that benefit Nigerians living abroad.
Nandap highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s directive to improve passport processing for Nigerians overseas. 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 US and other countries.
Dabiri-Erewa welcomed the initiative, describing it as a major step toward efficient and secure passport processing for Nigerians abroad.
The contactless passport application system was first introduced in Canada where it received positive feedback from Nigerians. Its expansion to Europe is expected to further ease passport renewal challenges for the Nigerian diaspora.
Vanguard
