The Federal Government has declared a two-week processing timeline for passport applications, signaling an end to the prolonged waiting periods that Nigerians have experienced in obtaining international passports.
Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, made this announcement during a media parley in Abuja.
The event was convened to review his directive to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to address a backlog of over 204,000 passport applications.
While apologizing for the delay that extended beyond his initial two-week deadline, Tunji-Ojo commended the dedication of NIS officers and personnel who worked tirelessly, including weekends and public holidays, to meet his directive.
The minister emphasized the importance of international passports as a right, contrasting them with visas, which are privileges.
He reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to keeping passport application fees stable, despite foreign exchange fluctuations.
Tunji-Ojo stated, “On September 7, we made a promise to sort out the backlogs in two weeks but we made it in three weeks and I sincerely want to apologize to Nigerians for that.
“The Renewed Hope administration of President Bola Tinubu is one that matches its words with actions. The issue of passport must be a fight and not a privilege. Visa is a privilege but passport is a right and we are happy that today, we have been able to handle over the rights of Nigerians to them.”
The minister explained that the administration inherited 204,332 enrollment records without issued passports.
After strategic meetings with the NIS and support from service providers, the government increased printing machines to four in passport offices where there were initially two.
The additional machines were provided by service providers at no cost.
Tunji-Ojo praised NIS personnel for working three shifts and 24/7 to clear the backlog and ensure that passport production backlogs are eliminated permanently.
He called on Nigerians to collect their passports and refrain from giving money to unauthorized individuals. He also provided contact information for reporting issues or complaints.
Furthermore, the minister announced plans to allow passport applicants to upload their passport photographs via the immigration portal in the coming months, reducing the need for in-person visits to passport offices.
He assured Nigerians that despite exchange rate fluctuations, passport fees would remain unchanged, reflecting the government’s commitment to providing efficient passport services.
The minister concluded by stating, “As a person, I do not want anybody to go and stay in a passport office for more than 10 minutes.”