The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has enrolled 8,552 Nigerians in passport intervention exercises conducted in the United States, Canada, Qatar, and the United Kingdom. This initiative was undertaken in line with the directive of the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, to improve passport service delivery to Nigerians in the diaspora. The exercises aimed to bring passport services closer to Nigerians living abroad. The NIS collaborated with Nigerian diplomatic missions and representatives of Nigerian communities in the affected countries to achieve this goal.
In the United States, 535 Nigerians were enrolled during the exercise held in Chicago, Michigan, and Milwaukee between September 7 and 15, 2026. The NIS provided a breakdown of the figures, highlighting the number of enrolments in each country. The exercises were conducted in various cities across the four countries, ensuring that Nigerians in different regions had access to passport services. This move is part of the NIS's efforts to enhance service delivery and make passport acquisition more convenient for Nigerians abroad.
Canada recorded 2,257 enrolments in exercises held in Manitoba, Toronto, Saskatoon, Alberta, and New Brunswick between September 6 and 19. The NIS also conducted an exercise in Qatar, where 751 Nigerians were enrolled between August 9 and 24. These numbers contribute to the overall total of 8,552 enrolments. The exercises in these countries demonstrate the NIS's commitment to providing accessible passport services to Nigerians living abroad.
The United Kingdom recorded the highest number of enrolments, with 5,099 Nigerians registered in London and Manchester during the ongoing exercise. The NIS noted that the registration was still ongoing in the UK, with passport production and dispatch being carried out concurrently. This allows for a streamlined process, ensuring that applicants receive their passports in a timely manner. The high number of enrolments in the UK reflects the large Nigerian community in the country.
The NIS encouraged applicants who were unable to secure appointment slots during the exercise, as well as those who may prefer not to physically visit the centres or the High Commission, to utilise the Contactless Passport Application System. This system provides an alternative for applicants, making it easier for them to acquire passports. The NIS reiterated its commitment to providing accessible, efficient, and timely passport services to Nigerians living outside the country.
The passport intervention exercises are part of the NIS's efforts to improve service delivery and address the challenges faced by Nigerians in acquiring passports abroad. The exercises were conducted in collaboration with Nigerian diplomatic missions and representatives of Nigerian communities in the affected countries. This collaboration ensures that the NIS can reach a wider audience and provide services to more Nigerians.
The Nigeria Immigration Service's initiative has provided relief to thousands of Nigerians living abroad who were facing challenges in acquiring passports. The exercises have brought passport services closer to the people, making it easier for them to access these essential documents. The NIS's commitment to improving service delivery is evident in its efforts to provide accessible and efficient passport services to Nigerians in the diaspora.
Key points
- 8,552 Nigerians enrolled in passport intervention exercises in US, Canada, Qatar, and UK.
- Exercises conducted in collaboration with Nigerian diplomatic missions and representatives of Nigerian communities.
- UK recorded highest number of enrolments with 5,099 Nigerians registered.
