Commission Applauds New Passport Application Innovation

By Margaret Ebeshi

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The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has commended the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and his team, for the recent innovations in passport application and collection processes, which aim to improve efficiency for Nigerians abroad.

The Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa praised the Ministry’s efforts, stating that Nigerians in the Diaspora are excited about the changes taking place.
“Nigerians abroad have long anticipated improvements in accessing passport services”, She said.

She stated that this revolution in the application and collection process is a much-needed change that will ease the burden on Nigerian citizens globally.
Dr. Dabiri-Erewa highlighted NiDCOM’s readiness to support these reforms through advocacy and sensitisation, adding.

Advocacy is at the heart of NiDCOM’s work. We are prepared to collaborate fully with the Ministry of Interior and the Nigeria Immigration Service to ensure that Nigerians in the Diaspora are well informed about these developments and continue to be a bridge between Nigeria and its diaspora,” she added.

In response, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo underscored the Ministry’s commitment to working closely with NiDCOM and the Nigeria Immigration Service.

He stressed the need for a structured partnership through a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

Our goal is to ensure effective communication and engagement with Nigerians abroad. We are looking forward to the strong collaboration, particularly in advocacy and sensitisation, to make these reforms successful,” Tunji-Ojo stated.

Meanwhile, the contactless biometrics innovation in the passport application process eliminates long travel/flight hours, saves hotel reservation costs, and prevents work absenteeism, among others.

The contactless option is available for renewals and for persons above 18 years of age.

It kicks off on November 1 in Canada, November 15 in the US, and December  1, in all other countries.

 

Dominica Nwabufo

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