Caroline Adepoju, the Acting Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), has declared a state of emergency on passport issues within the country.

During her visit to Lagos, Adepoju emphasized the urgent need to address the difficulties faced by Nigerians in obtaining international passports.

In a statement released by the Service Public Relations Officer (SPRO), Mr. Tony Akuneme, it was mentioned that the acting CGI inaugurated a state-of-the-art Visa-on-Arrival Lounge at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport. This facility served as a testament to the NIS’s dedication to enhancing the overall travel experience for individuals entering Nigeria.

Moreover, during the event, Adepoju announced a comprehensive plan of action aimed at effectively resolving the challenges encountered by Nigerians in their quest for passports. This state of emergency declaration regarding passport issues signifies the NIS’s renewed commitment to addressing these challenges and streamlining the passport acquisition process for Nigerian citizens.

The announcement highlights the NIS’s determination to prioritize the improvement of passport services, ensuring that Nigerians can obtain passports with greater ease and efficiency. By implementing measures to enhance the passport issuance system, the NIS aims to provide a more seamless experience for Nigerian citizens seeking to acquire passports, reducing delays and frustrations associated with the process.

“It represents a call to action for all stakeholders to prioritise efficiency, transparency, and excellence in service delivery”, she said.

Adepoju issued a directive to all Passport Control Officers, relevant units, and personnel, which encompassed Missions abroad, with the aim of removing any barriers that hinder Nigerians from obtaining passports in a timely manner.

“NIS is leveraging technology and instituting robust administrative measures to enhance the Passport application and issuance process.

“We urge all Nigerians to remain patient and cooperate with the service as it takes decisive steps to address the Passport crisis,” she said.