The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), has officially declared a state of emergency on passport issues within the country.
Caroline Adepoju, the Acting Comptroller General of NIS during her recent visit to Lagos, emphasized the urgent need to address the numerous challenges faced by Nigerians in obtaining international passports.
In a statement released by the Service Public Relations Officer (SPRO), Mr. Tony Akuneme, it was announced that the acting CGI inaugurated a state-of-the-art Visa-on-Arrival Lounge at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport.
This facility not only showcases the NIS’s dedication to enhancing the overall travel experience for visitors entering Nigeria but also serves as a platform to announce a comprehensive plan of action in addressing the passport issues effectively.
The state of emergency declaration regarding passport matters signifies the renewed commitment of the NIS to resolving the obstacles faced by Nigerians in their quest to acquire passports.
Adepoju stressed the importance of efficiency, transparency, and service excellence, urging all stakeholders to prioritize these values.
To ensure swift passport processing, Adepoju issued directives to Passport Control Officers, relevant units, personnel, and even Missions abroad. Their collective goal is to eliminate any hindrances preventing Nigerians from promptly accessing passports.
Leveraging technology and implementing robust administrative measures, the NIS aims to streamline the application and issuance process.
In light of the passport crisis, Adepoju called upon all Nigerians to exercise patience and cooperate with the service as it takes decisive steps to address the issue.