The Nigerian Senate has mandated its Committee on the Interior to urgently investigate the delay in the issuance and renewal of Nigerian passports by the Nigerian Immigration Services (NIS).
The resolution follows a motion on the “Delay on issuance, renewal of Nigeria International Passport” by the NIS at plenary on Tuesday. The motion was sponsored by the senator representing Anambra Central, Uche Ekwunife.
Ekwunife, in her lead debate, noted that the delay in renewing Nigeria’s passport by the NIS was causing untold hardships for Nigerians who need to travel out of the country or return to the country.
According to her, many Nigerians are still facing challenges with passport processing, despite the six-week timeline given by the Federal Government barely a year ago.
Currently, new applicants and those who want their passports renewed spend between three and six months processing their application at the offices of the Nigerian Immigration Services and Nigerian embassies outside the country.
This has had far-reaching consequences, including financial losses for individuals and businesses and making it difficult for Nigerians to attend important events abroad, including business meetings and family gatherings.
The Senate’s decision to investigate the matter is a welcome development, and many Nigerians hope that it will result in a speedy resolution to the problem. One area that requires attention is the contract award for the production of passports. The Committee on the Interior must look into this matter and provide answers to Nigerians.
Another critical area that requires attention is the efficiency of the Nigerian Immigration Services. The agency must be adequately equipped and staffed to ensure that passport processing is timely and efficient. Technology solutions may also be explored to streamline the passport application and renewal process.
News About Nigeria Understands that the delay in the issuance and renewal of Nigerian passports is a matter of grave concern that requires urgent action. It is imperative that the government addresses the challenges facing Nigerians when it comes to passport processing and renewals. The right to personal liberty and freedom of movement is a fundamental human right that must be protected, and the Senate’s decision to investigate the matter is a step in the right direction.
