The Federal Government has revealed its plans to introduce upgraded e-passport facilities at selected Nigerian embassies in Europe, aiming to position Nigeria as a technological innovation leader on the African continent.
Minister of Interior, Hon Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made this announcement during his keynote speech at the virtual Diaspora quarterly meeting organized by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) in Abuja.
The minister highlighted that the enhanced e-passport, compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, ensures international recognition and heightened security.
He emphasized the benefits, including greater convenience for diaspora Nigerians with online application and payment platforms, reduced processing times, and enhanced security features for worry-free travel.
The automated passport application process for the diaspora is set to launch on March 8, 2024, starting with missions in Italy (Europe), Canada (Americas), South Africa (Africa), and Malaysia (Asia).
The global deployment is targeted for April 8, 2024, following a month of refining any potential glitches.
Tunji-Ojo assured that the inconveniences of physical passport processing are a thing of the past, urging diasporans to actively engage in the transformative process by utilizing the online platform, synchronizing passport application data with their National Identification Number (NIN), providing accurate information, and reporting any irregularities.
The minister also reported the successful installation of e-gates at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, with an additional 16 E-gates expected in Lagos.
Plans include establishing a modern control center across international airports to enhance immigration officer capacity and ensure a seamless experience for returning Nigerians.
Moreover, the ministry has harmonized identity data, eliminating duplication and enhancing security.
The new passport acquisition system streamlines processes, significantly reducing costs previously associated with document archiving.
The ministry is also working towards launching a new passport policy, establishing dedicated processing centers in the diaspora to expedite services and reduce processing delays through the enhanced e-passport.
