Former Nigerian Ambassador to the Philippines, Yemi Farounbi, has expressed concerns that the recent increase in the cost of Nigerian passports will not deter citizens from migrating to other countries, despite the government’s intentions.
Farounbi acknowledged that while the price hike may be seen as necessary due to rising inflation, it ultimately adds to the financial burden faced by the average Nigerian.
“There is nothing whose price has not gone up in the last year. Unfortunately, the poor people are the carriers of this burden,” he said.
“Increasing the cost of passports by almost 100 percent will not discourage those who want to leave because they are being pulled by stronger forces than the cost of passports.”
News About Nigeria reported that the federal government announced on August 21 that it would increase the fees for obtaining passports, effective from September 1, 2024.
The 32-page passport booklet with a 5-year validity will now cost N50,000, up from N35,000, while the 64-page passport booklet with a 10-year validity will increase to N100,000 from N70,000.
The fees for passports issued abroad will remain unchanged.
The Immigration Service’s spokesperson explained that the fee adjustment is aimed at maintaining the quality and authenticity of Nigerian passports.
The agency also reassured citizens of its commitment to transparency and quality service delivery.
“While the Nigeria Immigration Service regrets any inconvenience this increase might cause prospective applicants, it assures Nigerians of unwavering commitment to transparency and quality service delivery at all times,” he added.
Earlier this year, the Federal Government had announced plans to introduce home delivery of passports, starting in select Nigerian cities and for Nigerians in the diaspora in the United States and the United Kingdom
