Nigerians have reacted with frustration and disappointment to the Nigeria Immigration Service's decision to increase passport fees. The cost for a 32-page booklet is now N50,000, up from N35,000, while the 64-page booklet is N100,000, up from N70,000. Social media users criticize the government, questioning the justification for the hike.
Nigerians have expressed outrage on social media following the announcement by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) of a significant increase in passport fees. The cost of a 32-page passport booklet with a 5-year validity has risen from N35,000 to N50,000, while the 64-page booklet with a 10-year validity now costs N100,000, up from N70,000. Many citizens view this hike as yet another financial burden, especially considering the country’s economic challenges.
The reactions online have been overwhelmingly critical, with users questioning the rationale behind the price increase and its impact on the quality and integrity of the passport. Some suggested that the government is making it increasingly difficult for Nigerians to leave the country, while others lamented that salaries remain stagnant despite the rising costs of essential services.
Social media is awash with comments highlighting the frustration and despair of many Nigerians, who feel that the government is out of touch with the struggles of ordinary citizens. The sentiment is summed up in a tweet: "EVERYTHING in Nigeria is increasing EXCEPT SALARY ." This increase in passport fees has further fueled dissatisfaction with the government, as many see it as another step in a series of economic policies that disproportionately affect the populace.