NIS declares state of emergency, leverages tech to fast-track passport process
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
A state of emergency in passport issuance has been declared by acting Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) Comptroller General Caroline Adepoju three weeks into the job she took over from Isah Jere when his tenure expired on May 29.
The state of emergency means leveraging technology to cut delays and fast-track passport processing time.
A statement issued in Abuja by NIS Media and Publicity Comptroller Tony Akuneme quoted Adepoju as making the declaration during her working visit to Lagos.
She stressed the urgent need to resolve challenges in obtaining passports and announced a comprehensive plan of action to tackle the issues effectively.
Her “visit to Lagos encompassed significant events that underscored the gravity of the passport crisis,” the statement said.
“She inaugurated a state-of-the-art Visa on Arrival Lounge at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, demonstrating her commitment to improving the overall travel experience for visitors entering Nigeria.
“Following this, she paid an unscheduled visit to the Alausa Passport office to assess the situation firsthand.
“In her address, Ag. CGI Adepoju emphasised the necessity to dismantle all man-made bottlenecks that impede the Passport application process.
“She further stressed that the NIS top management is fully committed to addressing institutional and technology-based drawbacks to ensure a more efficient and streamlined service delivery.”
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Sensitising the grassroots
“Recognising the importance of collaboration and community engagement, the Ag. CGI embarked on a grassroots sensitisation initiative targeting traditional rulers,” the statement added, per Vanguard reporting.
“She commenced this effort with a visit to the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, seeking the cooperation of traditional rulers in raising awareness about the menace of human trafficking and initiating joint efforts to combat this grave issue.
“The state of emergency declaration on passport issues signifies the renewed commitment of NIS to resolving the challenges faced by Nigerians seeking to obtain passports. It represents a call to action for all stakeholders to prioritise efficiency, transparency, and excellence in service delivery.
“Ag. CGI Adepoju had earlier directed all Passport Control Officers, relevant units and personnel within the NIS including our Missions abroad, to work tirelessly towards eliminating all hindrances preventing Nigerians from accessing Passports promptly.
“The NIS is leveraging technology and instituting robust administrative measures to enhance the passport application and issuance process.
“The Ag. CGI urges all Nigerians to remain patient and cooperate with the NIS as it takes decisive steps to address the passport crisis. She assures the public that efforts are being made to ensure that every eligible Nigerian who requires a passport can obtain one in a timely manner.”
