The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to establish passport front offices in major cities across the United Kingdom, including Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff (Wales), and Scotland, by February 2024.
The move comes as a response to the concerns raised by Nigerians in the diaspora regarding the slow process of passport renewal and collection.
Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, addressed the issues during an appearance on the Politics Today program on Channels Television on Tuesday, November 28, 2023. He acknowledged the challenges faced by Nigerians in the UK, particularly in London and New York, emphasizing the need for a strategic solution.
Tunji-Ojo stated, “There is no quick fix. But we have ensured Nigerians that by February next year, we would have opened our front offices such that we’ll have front offices in Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff in Wales, and Scotland.”
The minister highlighted that the concentration of Nigerians in the UK, coupled with the existence of only one passport office in London, had contributed to the difficulties faced by those living in other cities. He explained that the upcoming front offices would alleviate stress, reduce waiting periods, and enhance efficiency in the passport procurement system.
Tunji-Ojo emphasized the importance of investigating the capacity of the immigration office and understanding the demand for passports, considering the significant number of Nigerians residing in the country. He previously hinted at the Ministry of Interior’s plans to collaborate with various agencies abroad to establish multiple passport offices to streamline the collection process for Nigerians at home and in the diaspora.
The creation of additional passport offices aims to simplify the request and collection process, ultimately reducing the demand for passports and minimizing corrupt practices associated with passport procurement. The move reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the concerns of Nigerians abroad and enhancing the overall efficiency of the passport application and renewal system.
