The Nigerian Community in Greater Manchester (NCGM) has appealed to the Nigerian government to establish regular passport and consular services in Northern England. This call follows a successful passport intervention exercise in Manchester, United Kingdom, which drew a remarkable response from the community. NCGM Chairman, Otunba Abayomi Bashiru-Kaka, made the appeal during the organisation's 66th Independence anniversary celebration in Manchester. The event was attended by community members, civic leaders, and representatives of Nigerian institutions.
The intervention exercise, which covered four UK locations, including Manchester, London, Cardiff, and Aberdeen, was a welcome development that eased the difficulties faced by Nigerians accessing passport services outside London. According to the NCGM, the exercise recorded 1,709 passport enrolments in Manchester within the first six operational days, compared to 587 in London. This significant response highlights the demand for passport services in Northern England and the need for a more sustainable arrangement.
Bashiru-Kaka commended the Nigerian High Commission in London, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), and the federal government for improving services for Nigerians in the Diaspora. He particularly acknowledged the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and the Comptroller-General of the NIS, Mrs. Kemi Nanna Nandap, for their efforts in facilitating the intervention exercise. The NCGM also appreciated the officers involved in the exercise for their dedication and hard work.
Nigerians in Greater Manchester and surrounding communities face significant costs and inconvenience travelling to London for passport services. This challenge particularly affects families, elderly residents, students, and working professionals. Bashiru-Kaka urged the Nigerian High Commission, the NIS, and other relevant authorities to establish a more regular and sustainable passport and consular service arrangement in Northern England, with Manchester as a suitable regional base.
Manchester's accessibility, established Nigerian community networks, and demonstrated demand make it an ideal location for a regional base. Bashiru-Kaka emphasised the need for timely announcements and clear application guidelines to ensure the success of such an arrangement. He also highlighted the importance of improved access to essential government services in strengthening ties between Nigeria and its citizens abroad.
Beyond consular services, Bashiru-Kaka noted that Nigerians in the Diaspora contribute significantly to their homeland through family support, investment, professional expertise, and community development. He reaffirmed NCGM's commitment to working with the Nigerian High Commission, the NIS, and other stakeholders to advance the welfare of Nigerians in Northern England.
The NCGM has pledged to continue working with the Nigerian authorities and personnel involved in the intervention exercise. Bashiru-Kaka encouraged Nigerians to remain proud of their heritage while contributing positively to British society. The organisation's efforts aim to promote a stronger connection between Nigeria and its citizens abroad, while also enhancing the well-being of Nigerians in Northern England.
Key points
- Nigerians in Northern England face significant challenges accessing passport services in London.
- The Nigerian Community in Greater Manchester recorded 1,709 passport enrolments within the first six operational days of the intervention exercise.
- The NCGM urges the Nigerian government to establish a regular and sustainable passport and consular service arrangement in Northern England.
