The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has introduced a new feature to its passport tracking system, enabling applicants to track the exact status of their passports, including when they are ready for collection or delivery.
The update is designed to enhance transparency, alleviate anxiety among applicants, and address persistent concerns about passport processing delays.
WHAT’S NEW IN THE SYSTEM
The newly added status, tagged “PRODUCED (Passport Produced, Ready for Collection)”, clearly notifies applicants once their passports have been printed.
According to the NIS, the feature enables applicants to:
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Confirm when a passport is ready for physical pickup, or
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Know when it has been produced but is awaiting courier delivery
This upgrade enhances the existing tracking system and allows applicants to better monitor the entire process—from application to final collection.
NIS SPEAKS
In a statement shared on its official X (formerly Twitter) account on Thursday, the Service said the initiative aligns with global best practices in passport administration.
“The new addition, tagged ‘PRODUCED (PASSPORT PRODUCED, READY FOR COLLECTION)’, includes a feature informing applicants when their passports are ready for collection,” the NIS stated.
“This update enhances the existing tracking system and helps applicants stay informed about timelines.”
The Service reaffirmed its commitment to building an efficient and reliable passport system for Nigerians.
WHY THE UPDATE MATTERS
The announcement comes amid nationwide complaints about prolonged passport delays. Public frustration peaked after investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo shared his experience online.
Soyombo revealed that he applied for a passport renewal on July 31, 2025, paying ₦109,700 through the NIS portal, but faced repeated network issues. Months later, his tracking status still read “passport pending production.”
In response, the NIS clarified that his passport had already been produced and was awaiting delivery.
ADDRESSING DELAYS
The Immigration Service explained that delays may arise from:
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Incomplete applications
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Security vetting procedures
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Technical challenges within the processing system
It also disclosed that over 1.3 million passports were produced in 2025 alone, with ongoing reforms to improve service delivery nationwide.
The NIS noted that Nigeria’s passport has recently improved its ranking on the Henley Passport Index, crediting the progress to operational upgrades and reforms.
According to the Service, the new tracking feature is part of broader efforts to restore public confidence and create a more predictable, user-friendly passport application process for Nigerians both at home and abroad.
