In a significant leap towards modernizing government services, the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has launched a contactless passport application system for Nigerians residing in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and other parts of Europe.
This innovative initiative aims to simplify the passport renewal process, which has long been fraught with delays and inefficiencies.
Speaking at the launch Comptroller General, of Immigration, Adepoju Carol Wura-Ola, on Friday, emphasized the importance of the new system. “This is a game-changer for Nigerians in Europe. The days of endless struggles, missed appointments, and delayed services are over. Now, they can renew their passports from the comfort of their homes.”
The move follows the successful implementation of the system in Canada, where it was first rolled out a few months ago. With its introduction in Europe, applicants can now bypass embassy bottlenecks and apply online, marking a departure from the cumbersome traditional process.
A London-based Nigerian, Kunle Adeyemi, expressed relief at the development. “This is a breath of fresh air. I’ve waited months for an embassy appointment in the past, but this new system promises to change that.”
The next phase of this initiative will extend the contactless application system to Nigerians globally, including those living within the country. Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, highlighted the administration’s commitment to making government services more accessible. “This initiative underscores our dedication to leveraging technology to improve the lives of Nigerians at home and abroad,” he said.
As part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s push for modernization, the initiative seeks to humanize government services and foster greater efficiency. The Nigerian community in Europe has welcomed the move, with many expressing optimism about the improved ease of access to essential documentation.
