The Nigerian government has launched additional enhanced e-passport facilities at selected Nigerian embassies in five European countries, namely Italy, Greece, Spain, Austria, and Switzerland, News About Nigeria gathered.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, officially inaugurated the new passport processing centres at the Nigerian embassy in Rome.
A statement by the Service Public Relation Officer (SPRO), Adedotun Aridegbe, on Tuesday in Abuja, stated that the new passport processing centres were part of efforts to streamline passport processing and acquisition for Nigerians residing in the diaspora.
Tunji-Ojo emphasised the government’s dedication to citizens’ diplomacy and enhancing services for the diaspora community, emphasising that the e-passport complies with all standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Nigeria has positioned itself as the first country in Africa and the fifth globally to embrace this technological achievement.
The enhanced e-passport, introduced in two phases, will significantly reduce processing delays in Europe.
It offers three categories: a 32-page five-year validity category, a 64-page five-year validity category, and a 64-page 10-year validity category for adults.
Applicants are encouraged to follow application guidelines, including using the online application and payment platform and synchronising their passport application data with their National Identification Number (NIN).
For complaint resolution, they can use various channels provided by the Nigeria Immigration Service.
The inauguration event was attended by senior officials of the High Commission, a diverse representation of Nigerians in Italy, and members of the diplomatic community.
This initiative aims to enhance services for Nigerians in Europe and streamline the passport acquisition process.
