FG to start home passport delivery next year

The Federal Government has announced that, starting next year, Nigerians will be able to choose the delivery location for their passports, which can include their homes, offices, or other preferred places.

Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made this announcement during the opening ceremony of the 2023 University of Lagos International Week. He mentioned:

“We have initiated the automation of our entire passport application process, and we have set a timeline for Nigerians to begin enjoying a more efficient experience.

“This means that Nigerians will no longer have to wait for more than two weeks to receive their passports. By January of the coming year, Nigerians will have the option to complete their passport application online. By February, in collaboration with various stakeholders, we will enable passport deliveries to homes, offices, or other chosen locations.

“This improved process will also extend to our visa application system. We are incorporating technology at every stage to ensure a smooth process. To facilitate this, we are taking steps to establish additional visa application centres worldwide.

“We are also actively enhancing our visa-on-arrival policy and collaborating with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to enforce the principle of reciprocity. A dedicated committee has been formed within the ministry to accomplish this.”

Minister Ojo further emphasized the need to restore the integrity of travel documents through data harmonization, stating:

“Identity defines us and what we stand for. However, currently, there is a proliferation of registration processes in Nigeria, including BVN for banking, international passport, NIN, SIM card registration for telecommunications, and more, all requiring your data. To ensure the integrity of our travel documents, we are committed to harmonizing our data.”