The Federal Government has announced the commencement of a home delivery service for international passports starting in January 2024.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made this announcement during the 2023 University of Lagos International Week opening ceremony in Lagos.
He emphasized that Nigerians would soon enjoy a more streamlined passport application process as the ministry initiates it automation.
The minister stated, “We have commenced the automation of our end-to-end passport application process, and we have given a timeline from which Nigerians will begin to experience the ‘sweet experience.’”
He continued, “By implication, Nigerians will not need to wait longer than two weeks before they get their passport. By January next year, Nigerians will be able to complete this application process online, and by February next year, with collaboration and partnership with other relevant stakeholders, Nigerians will have their passports delivered to their homes, offices, and other locations of their choice.”
The minister also mentioned that this streamlined approach would extend to the visa application process. Efforts are underway to open more visa application centres worldwide, and the visa-on-arrival policy will be strengthened.
Additionally, Tunji-Ojo emphasized the importance of data harmonization for restoring the integrity of travel documents.
He noted that Nigeria currently has multiple registrations, including BVN for banks, international passports, NIN, SIM card registration for telcos, and more, which all require personal data.