The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has taken a significant step in enhancing national service delivery under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.
Following the successful implementation of the Contactless Passport Renewal System in Canada, the NIS has now expanded the initiative to Europe.
In a statement on Friday, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, described the move as another pivotal milestone in the government’s commitment to streamlining and improving service efficiency for Nigerians at home and abroad.
He emphasised that the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope agenda of the Tinubu administration.
Tunji-Ojo stated that, as seen in Canada, the innovative system eliminates the traditional challenges associated with passport renewals.
He said eligible Nigerians in Europe can now renew their passports entirely online, from the comfort of their homes or offices.
He further noted that this initiative not only removes the inconvenience of travel and long waiting times but also brings the services of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) directly to citizens’ digital doorsteps.
“The introduction of this system in Europe further underscores our dedication to: Efficiency: By allowing passport renewals to be conducted without physical presence. This helps us cut down processing times significantly.
“Accessibility: Ensuring that Nigerians in the diaspora experience government services with ease, regardless of their location. Modernization: Embracing technology to meet the contemporary needs of our citizens in line with our pledge to the digital transformation of the country as we race towards achieving the 1-trillion dollar economy ambition of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR)”, he said.
Tunji-Ojo further stated that the Nigerian diaspora is an integral part of the national fabric and contributes immensely to the country’s development.
He emphasised that the NIS must ensure they (Nigerians) have access to services that meet the highest standards of professionalism and efficiency.
He affirmed that the government would continue to uphold transparency without compromising security in all its operations.
“This launch is only the beginning; we are poised to expand these reforms by bringing government services closer to all Nigerians. We look forward to a future where every Nigerian, whether at home or abroad, benefits from our efforts to modernize and humanize government services.”
