The federal government has issued over 3.5 million passports in less than two years while saving more than ₦1 billion annually through strategic reforms in the passport issuance system.
Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, disclosed this on Tuesday during the commissioning of a new passport front office in Abuja.
He said the reforms align with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to enhance efficiency, improve security, and deliver better service to Nigerians.
Key achievements include:
- Automation of breeder document uploads, saving over ₦1 billion yearly.
- Issuance of 3,080,141 passports locally and 466,117 abroad since August 2023.
- Clearance of a backlog of 200,000 passport applications and elimination of a ₦20 billion inherited debt.
“We’ve ended passport scarcity. Nigerians no longer need to endure long queues or delays,” the minister declared.
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Tunji-Ojo also highlighted the expansion of enhanced e-passport centres from 26 to 44 across Nigeria and from 5 to 47 globally. He confirmed that all passport offices now issue harmonised, ICAO-compliant enhanced passports.
On the new passport front office, he said the digital facility will ease access for public servants and strengthen document integrity.
By July 31, all applications for Special Entry Permits and Temporary Work Permits must be completed online, as manual processing will be phased out.
“This is 2025, not 1925. Biometrics and data collection are non-negotiable for national security,” Tunji-Ojo emphasised.
The minister applauded Iris Smart Technologies for donating biometric tools and equipment at no cost to the government, reaffirming the ministry’s commitment to transparency and innovation.
Sunday Michael Ogwu is a Nigerian journalist and editor of Pinnacle Daily. He is known for his work in business and economic reporting. He has held editorial roles in prominent Nigerian media outlets, where he has focused on economic policy, financial markets, and developmental issues affecting Nigeria and Africa more broadly.