The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has commended the Minister of Interior, Hon Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and his team, on the recent innovations in passport application and collection processes, which aim to improve efficiency for Nigerians abroad.
Chairman/CEO of NIDCOM, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, praised the Ministry’s efforts, stating that Nigerians in the Diaspora are excited about the changes taking place.
The Commission’s boss in a press statement by NIDCOM Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit, Friday in Abuja, said: “Nigerians abroad have long anticipated improvements in accessing passport services.”
She stated that the revolution in the application and collection process was a much-needed change that would ease the burden on our citizens globally.”
The statement signed by Gabriel Odu noted that she assured of NIDCOM’s readiness to support these reforms through advocacy and sensitisation, noting, “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.”
In response, the Minister of Interior, 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), stating:
“Our goal is to ensure effective communication and engagement with Nigerians abroad. We are looking forward to a strong collaboration, particularly in advocacy and sensitisation, to make these reforms successful.”
Blueprint reports that the contactless biometrics innovation has the following benefits: eliminates long travel/flights hour, saves hotel reservation costs, prevents works absenteeism, among others.
The contactless option is available for renewals and for persons above 18 years of age.
It kicked off on November 1, 2024 in Canada, and will commence on November 15, in the US, and December 1, in all other countries.