For the first time since its creation in 1963, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has centralised passport production – a move described as a game-changer for millions of Nigerians at home and abroad.
Newsonspot reports that speaking during an inspection of the new Centralised Passport Personalisation Centre in Abuja, Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, said the reform is a landmark step toward efficiency, speed, and improved service delivery.
Previously, old machines produced just 250 to 300 passports daily. The new system, however, boasts an impressive capacity of 4,500 to 5,000 passports per day – enough to meet daily demand within just a few hours of operation.
“We promised two-week delivery, but we’re now working towards one week,” Tunji-Ojo said, stressing that automation and optimisation are key to achieving this.
Beyond faster delivery, the minister explained that centralisation will enhance the global integrity of Nigerian passports, bring uniformity, and align with international standards.
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He added that the development ties directly to President Bola Tinubu’s broader reform agenda, which is focused on modernising government institutions and making services more accessible to Nigerians.
FAQs
1. When was the Nigeria Immigration Service established?
It was established in 1963.
2. Why was passport production centralised?
To improve efficiency, ensure uniformity, and align with global best practices.
3. How many passports can the new system produce daily?
Between 4,500 and 5,000, compared to 250–300 previously.
4. How soon will passports be delivered under the new system?
The government is targeting one-week delivery.
5. What impact does this have on Nigerians abroad?
It enhances the credibility of Nigerian passports internationally and strengthens service delivery at consular offices.
