The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has successfully enrolled 8,552 Nigerians residing in the United States, Canada, Qatar, and the United Kingdom through a series of targeted passport intervention exercises. These exercises aim to bring essential services closer to citizens living in the diaspora. The initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance passport service delivery, as directed by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
According to the NIS, the intervention exercises were conducted in collaboration with Nigerian diplomatic missions and representatives of Nigerian communities in the affected countries. The exercises were designed to improve passport service delivery and provide a more convenient experience for Nigerians living abroad. A statement released by the NIS Public Relations Officer, DCI Akinsola Akinlabi, provided details on the enrolment numbers from each country.
In the United States, a total of 535 Nigerians were enrolled during the exercise held in Chicago, Michigan, and Milwaukee between September 7 and 15, 2026. This was part of a larger effort to reach Nigerians across the country. The NIS worked closely with local communities and diplomatic missions to ensure the success of the exercise.
Canada saw a significant turnout, with 2,257 applicants enrolled during the exercise conducted between September 6 and 19 across Manitoba, Toronto, Saskatoon, Alberta, and New Brunswick. The Qatar intervention exercise, held from August 9 to 24, recorded 751 enrolments. These numbers demonstrate the reach and impact of the NIS's efforts to provide passport services to Nigerians abroad.
The United Kingdom recorded the highest number of enrolments, with 5,099 Nigerians enrolled in London and Manchester. The exercise in the UK is still ongoing, and the NIS has confirmed that passport production and dispatch are being carried out concurrently. This has helped to streamline the process and reduce wait times for applicants.
The NIS has advised Nigerians who were unable to secure appointment slots or prefer not to visit passport centres or the High Commission physically to use the Contactless Passport Application System. This system provides an alternative solution for those who face challenges in accessing traditional passport services.
The NIS has reaffirmed its commitment to providing accessible, efficient, and convenient passport services to Nigerians living outside the country. The successful enrolment of 8,552 Nigerians in the diaspora passport drive demonstrates the Service's dedication to meeting the needs of citizens abroad.
Key points
- 8,552 Nigerians enrolled in diaspora passport drive across US, Canada, Qatar, and UK.
- Exercises conducted in collaboration with Nigerian diplomatic missions and community representatives.
- Ongoing efforts aim to improve passport service delivery for Nigerians living abroad.
