Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has announced that the full automation of passport applications in Nigeria will begin on January 8. The process will allow Nigerians to complete their passport application online, eliminating the need for physical visits to immigration centers. Users will be able to upload their passport photographs and supporting documents from their homes. The automation of the process aims to reduce human contact and improve efficiency.
Tunji-Ojo made the announcement after inspecting the facilities of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) in Abuja on Monday. He expressed confidence that the new system will provide a positive experience for Nigerians, aligning with “the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Tinubu.” The minister emphasized that the automation of the passport application process is a significant step towards achieving a more streamlined and efficient system.
The full automation of passport applications has been anticipated for some time, with the minister stating last year that the process was 99 percent complete. The upcoming launch on January 8 will mark the culmination of these efforts.