Nigeria is set to revolutionize its passport application system as the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, confirmed the launch of the long-anticipated automation process on January 8, 2024.
In a press conference held on Monday, Minister Tunji-Ojo verified that the automation initiative, previously announced in December, is now 99% complete. This revolutionary system is designed to facilitate a seamless online application process, eliminating the need for physical contact during the passport application journey.
The minister, who recently inspected the Nigeria Immigration Service facilities in Abuja alongside Comptroller General Wura-Ola Adepoju, emphasized that Nigerians will now have the convenience of applying for and completing their passport application process entirely online.
“We are good to go live. We are starting the training, and on January 8, the solution will be live and direct for Nigerians to have a good feel, a sweet experience based on the Renewed Hope of Mr. President," Tunji-Ojo declared.
The training process, already underway, is a crucial step toward the full implementation of the automated system. Minister Tunji-Ojo expressed confidence in the reduction of human contact during passport acquisition, ensuring a smoother and more efficient process for applicants.
Furthermore, he highlighted that this initiative is not only a leap towards efficiency but also a significant enhancement to the country's security architecture. The automated system is expected to expedite the detection of fraudulent passport applications, thus bolstering the nation's security measures.
As Nigeria gears up for this technological transformation in passport issuance, citizens can anticipate a more user-friendly, secure, and expedited application process, aligning with the government's commitment to fostering a Renewed Hope for the nation.