By Adenike Lawal
Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made an unannounced visit to the Nigerian Immigration Service passport office in Gwagwalada, Abuja, on Tuesday, criticizing slow processing and warning applicants against paying unofficial fees.
Inspecting the VIP and Children sections, Tunji-Ojo questioned why services had not started on time and expressed concern over long waiting periods. “I don’t want to hear that money is being collected for diesel or paper. Nigerians have already paid for their passports in full. Serve them diligently,” he said.
The minister noted that operations began an hour late due to a generator issue and condemned the practice of completing enrolment for all applicants before starting biometric capturing. “People are waiting here. Some have work and other commitments. Why must enrolment be completed for everyone before capturing begins?” he asked.
He also highlighted under-utilization of the VIP and Children sections and urged staff to serve applicants efficiently, reminding them, “Nigeria has no VIPs. Wearing this uniform is about sacrifice. You are here to serve the people.”
