Widespread debate over state of origin mandatory requirement for international passport applicants by the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has continue to trigger anger, worry and even condemnation or knocks. Juliet Jacob who takes a critical look at the decision by the NIS to make state of origin paper a mandatory requirement for passport seekers reports that, it may, in the long run result in clog in the wheel of progress.
Nigerian international passport applicants have been encountering numerous challenges in obtaining and utilizing their passports. The challenges range from difficulties in the application process to limitations on travel privileges.
Adding to their problems is the mandatory state of origin paper. Recent checks show that Nigeria is the only country where quota and state of origin are basis for consideration for official appointments and placements into government’s and national services. Not surprising, many progressive minded have argued against this, describing it as archaic.
The state of origin requirement in the international passport process for all applicants is big burden among various issues surrounding the Nigerian passport procurement system.
In the 21st century, nations talk about ease of business and also create ways and means of doing it. Seamless processes have been endorsed as against cumbersome, long and winding systems, which often times amount to counterproductive in every sense of it. In the same vein, e-processes have been introduced to ease processes. E-process is applauded as best practices which any serious nation in the world key into as it allows it to move faster, quicker results and record accelerated successes.
Automated Passport Application System
Recently the NIS introduced the Automated Passport Application System: The implementation of the new automated passport application system has resulted in delays and frustrations for many Nigerians.
Applicants Struggling To Meet the New Requirements
Despite initial promises of a quicker and smoother process, applicants are struggling to meet the new requirements, leading to processing delays nationwide.
Weak Passport Ranking: The Nigerian passport ranks among the weakest globally, with limited visa-free access to other countries. Compared to fellow African nations, Nigeria lags behind in passport strength, impacting the travel opportunities of its citizens.
Increased Requirements and Fees: Recent changes in passport renewal requirements, such as the need for additional documentation like letters of identification, have added complexity to the application process.
Moreover, an unannounced fee hike for passport renewal further burdens applicants.
Inefficient Processing: Passport offices across Nigeria are facing challenges in processing applications due to stringent new conditions. Many applicants, including minors and elderly individuals, struggle to meet the updated requirements, leading to delays and backlogs.
Insights from Officials and Experts
Immigration Officials’ Concerns: Officials from the Nigeria Immigration Service express dissatisfaction with the new passport application system, citing difficulties faced by applicants and questioning the logic behind certain requirements, such as obtaining letters of identification for minors and the elderly.
Expert Analysis: Peace and conflict experts and professors weigh in on the underlying issues contributing to Nigeria’s poor passport ranking and global perception. They highlight factors such as corruption, insecurity, and poor governance as key challenges needing urgent attention.
Proposed Solutions:
Policy Reforms: The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Ojo, emphasizes the need for reforms within the Nigeria Immigration Service to address bottlenecks in passport issuance. He pledges to dismantle obstacles hindering swift passport issuance and improve overall service efficiency.
Transparency and Good Governance: Experts stress the importance of transparency, good leadership, and effective governance in improving Nigeria’s image and passport ranking. They advocate for measures to combat corruption, enhance security, and prioritize citizens’ welfare.
International Engagement: Efforts to improve Nigeria’s global perception and passport strength should include diplomatic initiatives to enhance international cooperation and address concerns raised by other countries. This may involve rebranding efforts and fostering positive relations with global partners.
Conclusion:
The challenges facing Nigerian passport holders require concerted efforts from government authorities, policymakers, and citizens alike. By addressing underlying issues such as corruption, insecurity, and inefficient bureaucracy, Nigeria can work towards improving its passport system and enhancing its global standing. Through transparency, good governance, and international engagement, Nigeria can aspire to provide its citizens with a passport that reflects their rights and opens doors to opportunities worldwide.
– An Immigration official at the Abuja passport office: “Securing your passport is now rigorous because of unnecessary documentation requirements.”
– Professor Akinsola Agagu: “Nigeria needs to show transparency… We need a firm leader that can mobilize people to do right.”
– Professor Funso Adesola: “In Nigeria, it is difficult to get employment… Wealth is not circulating, and there is no hope for the average Nigerian.”
– Professor Felix Akpan: “Nigerians are everywhere… The Nigerian government needs to pay more attention to these issues.”
