Automated Passport Application Rollout Set For January 8

In a significant development, the minister of interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has officially confirmed the launch of the automated passport application process, scheduled to go live on January 8, 2024.

This transformative initiative empowers Nigerians to seamlessly apply for and complete their passport applications online, marking a pivotal shift away from traditional in-person procedures.

The announcement was made during a thorough inspection of Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) facilities in Abuja, alongside Comptroller General Wura-Ola Adepoju.

Tunji-Ojo stated, “We are good to go live. We are starting the training, and on January 8, the solution will be live and direct for Nigerians to have a good feel, a sweet experience based on the Renewed Hope of Mr. President. We have been able to reduce human contact in passport acquisition to the minimum.”

The minister emphasised that the introduction of automation would not only simplify the passport application process but also bolster the nation’s security architecture. The automated system is designed to swiftly detect any attempts at submitting fake passport applications, significantly reducing procedural delays.

Tunji-Ojo reiterated the government’s commitment to eradicating the use of counterfeit documents in passport applications, unveiling plans to deploy document verification officers in every local government area. This strategic move aims to ensure thorough scrutiny of passport applications across the nation.

This development follows the minister’s announcement last month, where he highlighted the government’s substantial progress toward achieving a fully automated passport application system. At that time, Tunji-Ojo disclosed that the automated application system was “99 per cent done,” emphasising that the process would include uploading passport photos and supporting documents. Once live, the automated system promises to streamline the passport acquisition process, with applicants only required to provide biometrics, specifically fingerprints, at immigration or passport centers.