NIS Revolutionizes Passport Acquisition with Launch of Automated Application Process
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has unveiled an automated passport application process, aiming to streamline and expedite passport acquisition for Nigerians.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, conducted a live demonstration session on Saturday in Abuja, showcasing the functionality of the new system to stakeholders from across the country.
NIS Automated Passport Application, What it meansÂ
The Minister emphasized that this reform is aligned with the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, seeking to redefine how citizens enroll and procure international passports.
Focused on convenience, reduced processing time, and an overall seamless experience, the Minister assured the public that this solution would enhance national security and data protection.
During the technical session, Minister Tunji-Ojo stated, “With the new solution, application, processing, review, and approval will all be done online. On knowledge transfer, we have trained our officers to assume the new roles. We have reduced the process of requesting a passport to about six minutes, eliminating the need for individuals to visit immigration offices and reducing pressure on immigration officers.
The Minister also announced that arrangements have been made for power and internet service providers to ensure at least 99.9% uptime. By February, Nigerians in the diaspora are expected to have a similar streamlined experience.
Addressing concerns about identity theft, the Minister revealed that the NIS has achieved harmonization of data through a technical handshake with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). This collaboration aims to bolster the security and accuracy of citizens’ information.
The Comptroller General of NIS, Mrs. Adepoju Carol Wura-Ola, highlighted the dedication and determination of the Service in bringing about this transformative change. She emphasized the motivation to eliminate the stress, pains, and hardships associated with passport procurement, both domestically and in the diaspora.
“What you’re seeing today is the product of dedication and motivation to see that an end comes to the stress, pains, and hardship that Nigerians go through to procure the international passport,” said Mrs. Wura-Ola. “We are motivated to stamp out corruption and restore the Green Passport to its place of pride.”
