The Federal Government of Nigeria, led by Minister of Interior Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, is set to revolutionize passport services by introducing a home delivery option. This initiative aims to fulfill the government’s commitment to providing efficient services to Nigerians. The minister made this announcement while inaugurating a Front Desk office for the Nigerian Immigration Service passport office in Auchi, Edo State. Aregbesola emphasized the government’s dedication to ensuring that Nigerians can obtain passports in a timely manner, at an affordable cost, and without unnecessary stress.
Minister Aregbesola revealed that the Nigerian Immigration Service is in the final stages of negotiations with NIPOST, the national postal service, to utilize its speed mail service for the secure delivery of passports. This collaboration will streamline the passport issuance process and enhance convenience for applicants. Aregbesola expressed confidence in the success of this endeavor, demonstrating the government’s commitment to leveraging technology and innovative solutions to improve service delivery.
The introduction of the new Passport Front Desk Office holds significant importance. The minister emphasized the vital role of the Nigerian passport as proof of identity, particularly for citizens residing abroad. Failing to produce a passport when requested may lead to unfavorable consequences. Aregbesola underscored the government’s determination to ensure the availability of passports within a reasonable timeframe, both for fresh applications and renewals. The current timeline stands at six weeks after biometric data registration for fresh applications and three weeks for renewals, aligning with global best practices.
Acknowledging the challenge of waiting periods during application and data registration, Minister Aregbesola outlined the government’s strategy to mitigate this issue. The government plans to establish more front desk offices to increase registration centers and reduce waiting times for biometric data capture. By expanding these facilities, the government aims to reduce waiting periods to as short as three days. Additionally, the government envisions involving private operators in the future, who will offer lounge services for a fee, while the Nigerian Immigration Service will provide the necessary equipment and personnel.
The Federal Government of Nigeria, under Minister of Interior Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, is committed to enhancing passport services through the introduction of home delivery. This initiative aims to improve convenience and ensure timely access to passports for Nigerians. The government is working closely with NIPOST to leverage their speed mail service for secure passport delivery. The recent launch of the Passport Front Desk Office in Auchi signifies the government’s dedication to streamlining the passport issuance process and reducing waiting periods. By expanding registration centers and involving private operators, the government aims to further enhance service efficiency. Through these efforts, the Nigerian government strives to provide citizens with a hassle-free and accessible passport service.