In a recent interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, revealed that the automation of Nigeria’s passport application process is on the verge of completion, reaching an impressive 99%. According to the minister, the new automated application system is slated to become operational in just one week.
During the interview, Minister Tunji-Ojo emphasized that the revamped system aims to streamline the passport application process for Nigerians, reducing the need for physical visits to immigration centers. Once implemented, citizens will only be required to visit these centers for fingerprint biometrics, simplifying and expediting the overall application procedure.
The minister went on to explain that the upgraded system enables Nigerians to conveniently upload passport photographs and necessary supporting documents from the comfort of their homes, marking a significant shift towards a more accessible and user-friendly application process.
“We gave a date — December 2023. We are 99 per cent done. In fact, we have done the testing and we should be going live in the next week or thereabouts,” Minister Tunji-Ojo announced confidently. He further highlighted the importance of balancing national security and convenience, addressing any errors that arose during the testing phase to ensure a seamless launch.
In addition to the automated passport application, the minister disclosed plans to install e-gate systems at international airports across the country by February 2024. This technological upgrade is expected to enhance the efficiency of immigration processes, particularly for Nigerians returning to the country.
“By February, all our international airports will have e-gates. Once you are a Nigerian coming to Nigeria, you have no business seeing an immigration officer except if you are a person of interest,” the minister stated, underlining the government’s commitment to modernizing and improving the overall travel experience for citizens.
