The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has pledged that resolving all passport backlogs in Nigeria should not take more than two weeks, emphasizing that there should be no excuses for passport delays in the country.
Tunji-Ojo made this commitment during a live appearance on Channels Television’s “Politics Today” program.
He underscored that addressing the scarcity and delays associated with issuing and renewing passports was crucial in combating corruption within the sector.
Tunji-Ojo expressed his concern that the scarcity and delay in obtaining new passports and renewals have contributed to corruption in the passport issuance sector.
He stressed that after addressing existing backlogs, no Nigerian should have to wait for more than two weeks to receive their passport.
The minister firmly stated that owning a green passport is a right, not a privilege, for every Nigerian. He remarked, “It’s a right and not a privilege; Nigerians want that right to be actually theirs, not by somebody offering you your right.”
Tunji-Ojo emphasized that no Nigerian should endure disrespect due to passport application, highlighting the need for practical solutions to the passport issuance process.
He cited the President’s directive that there should be no excuses in delivering efficient passport services.
In response to this directive, the minister explained that a thorough analysis of the entire passport application process had been conducted, from online form submission to payment, scheduling appointments, biometrics collection, and passport issuance.
He assured that improvements were identified and would be implemented.
Tunji-Ojo further revealed ongoing discussions with service providers and the Nigeria Immigration Service to digitize and decentralize the passport application and renewal process.
The aim is to simplify the system and enable individuals to apply for passports more conveniently, potentially even at post offices or financial institutions.
He concluded by stating that various ideas were under consideration to enhance the passport issuance process, aligning with the goal of achieving efficiency and providing Nigerians with the passport services they deserve.