Biodata and NIN discrepancies extend timeline beyond 6 weeks
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
Biodata discrepancies in forms filled and in National Identification Number (NIN) are causing delay in the issuance of new passports beyond the recommended six weeks, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has alerted applicants.
NIS Zonal Command Comptroller Azuka Halliday disclosed at NIS 60th anniversary celebrations in Enugu that delivery time gets delayed when the name on passport forms does not match NIN data.
She urged applicants to use the NIS online platform for their applications so as to avoid complications, including delay that may arise from using a third-party.
Halliday said at 60, the NIS has delivered its core mandate which includes issuance of passports and other travelling documents, border surveillance and patrol, enforcement of laws and regulations.
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Implementation of National Migration Policy
According to Halliday, the National Migration Policy adopted in 2015 ensures Nigeria gets optimum benefits from international migration.
“For effective implementation of the Global Migration Policy, NIS is now saddled with the role of border management, ensuring national border security, seamless regular migration and economic development of the country,” she said, per Nairametrics.
“NIS has developed a streamlined building programme for its workforce nationally that would ensure proactive, effective and efficient service delivery as well as the introduction of modern technology to enhance its operations.
“All these innovations are to keep our borders safe.”
A recent report by Henley and Partners, in partnership with the International Air Transport Association (IATA), ranked Nigeria’s passport 90th, tying with South Sudan.
Nigeria’s passport ranks fifth lowest among African countries in terms of visa-free travel, faring only slightly better than the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Eritrea, Sudan, and Libya – countries noted for internal upheavals, including wars.
South Africa leads the continent with the best-performing passport that allows its citizens to visit 106 countries without visa.
Botswana is next with visa-free access to 89 countries, trailed by Papua New Guinea (83), Namibia (81), Kenya (76), Malawi (75), and Tunisia (71).