In a significant move that underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the Nigerian passport, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has announced an upward review of passport fees for Nigerians residing within the country. This decision, effective from September 1st, 2024, reflects the government’s effort to ensure that the Nigerian Standard Passport continues to meet international standards and serve as a credible identification document for Nigerian citizens.
Revised Passport Fee Structure
Starting from September 1st, 2024, the cost of obtaining a Nigerian passport will increase considerably. According to the announcement made by DCI KT Udo, the Service Public Relations Officer at the Service Headquarters of the Nigeria Immigration Service, the revised fees are as follows:
- 32-page Passport Booklet (5-year validity): The fee for this booklet will rise from N35,000 to N50,000.
- 64-page Passport Booklet (10-year validity): Previously priced at N70,000, the cost for this booklet will now be N100,000.
The Nigeria Immigration Service clarified that these changes apply exclusively to Nigerians living within the country, and there will be no changes in passport fees for Nigerians residing abroad.
Rationale Behind the Fee Increase
The decision to revise the passport fees is driven by several factors, primarily the need to maintain the high quality and security standards of the Nigerian Standard Passport. Here are the key reasons for the upward review:
1. Enhancing Passport Security and Quality
One of the primary reasons for the fee increase is to ensure that the Nigerian passport continues to adhere to international security standards. The Nigerian government is committed to providing a passport that not only serves as a reliable travel document but also meets the rigorous security criteria set by international bodies. By increasing the fees, the government aims to invest in advanced security features and materials that enhance the durability and integrity of the passport.
2. Addressing Rising Production Costs
The cost of producing and issuing passports has risen significantly in recent years. This increase can be attributed to various factors, including inflation, higher costs of raw materials, and the adoption of more sophisticated security technologies. The fee adjustment is, therefore, necessary to cover these escalating costs and ensure the sustainability of the passport issuance process.
3. Commitment to Efficient Service Delivery
The Nigeria Immigration Service has emphasized its commitment to delivering high-quality services to Nigerian citizens. Despite the potential inconvenience that the fee increase might cause, the NIS reassures the public of its dedication to transparency and efficiency. The additional revenue generated from the revised fees will be used to enhance service delivery, reduce processing times, and improve overall customer experience.
Impact on Domestic Applicants
For Nigerians residing within the country, the increase in passport fees will mean a higher financial outlay when applying for or renewing their passports. While the higher fees may be seen as a burden by some, it is important to consider the benefits that come with a more secure and internationally recognized travel document. The government has also highlighted that the increase is necessary to maintain the quality and integrity of the Nigerian passport in a rapidly changing global environment.
No Change for Nigerians in the Diaspora
For Nigerians living abroad, it is worth noting that the passport fees remain unchanged. This decision underscores the government’s recognition of the unique challenges faced by Nigerians in the diaspora, including the additional costs associated with international travel and consular services. By maintaining the current fees for overseas applicants, the government aims to provide some relief to Nigerians living outside the country.
Recent Improvements in Passport Services
The announcement of the fee increase comes on the heels of several improvements made to the Nigerian passport system. In recent years, the Nigeria Immigration Service has implemented a series of reforms aimed at streamlining the passport issuance process and enhancing the overall user experience.
Clearing the Backlog of Passport Applications
In August 2023, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, directed the NIS to clear a backlog of over 200,000 pending passport applications within two weeks. By October 2023, the NIS successfully cleared this backlog, urging Nigerians to collect their passports from respective offices. This effort was part of a broader strategy to address delays and inefficiencies in the passport issuance process.
Introduction of Home Delivery Services
In May 2024, the Nigerian government announced the introduction of home delivery services for passports, starting in June. This new service eliminates the need for Nigerians to visit immigration offices to collect their passports, making the process more convenient and accessible. The home delivery option is expected to reduce congestion at immigration offices and provide a more seamless experience for passport applicants.
Efforts to Improve Nigeria’s Passport Ranking
Despite these advancements, Nigeria’s passport ranking on the global stage remains relatively low. According to the 2024 Henley Passport Index, Nigeria was ranked 95th, tied with Sudan. This ranking reflects the limited travel freedoms available to Nigerian passport holders and highlights the need for continued efforts to enhance the value and acceptance of the Nigerian passport internationally.
What to Expect Moving Forward
With the new passport fees set to take effect on September 1st, 2024, Nigerian citizens are encouraged to plan ahead and prepare for the upcoming changes. The Nigeria Immigration Service has assured the public that it will continue to prioritize transparency, efficiency, and quality service delivery. As the government works to improve the passport issuance process and address the challenges facing Nigerian passport holders, citizens can expect further enhancements in the future.
For those considering applying for or renewing their passports, it is advisable to stay informed about the latest developments and ensure that all necessary documents are in order. The NIS has provided detailed information on its website and social media platforms to assist applicants in navigating the process and understanding the new fee structure.
