The Digest:
Nigerians in the United Kingdom have raised urgent complaints over severe delays and chaotic conditions at the Nigerian Passport Intervention Centre in Birmingham, describing the experience as deeply frustrating and a national embarrassment. A viral video showed hundreds of applicants gathered from early morning, with officials failing to start the scheduled passport capturing exercise on time.
Key Points:
- Nigerians in the UK have protested extensive delays at the passport renewal centre in Birmingham.
- Applicants reported gathering as early as 4 am after being promised a 9 am start, with no officials present by midday.
- A viral video showed officials arriving late and instructing the crowd to return the following day.
- One applicant criticized the situation, stating, “Nigeria will still happen to you even if you’re outside Nigeria.”
- Some online users defended the officials, claiming they work until the early morning hours.
- Others called on Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo to address the breakdown of recently introduced digital reforms.
- The incident highlights a gap between promised e-government efficiencies and on-ground service delivery.
- Authorities had not responded to requests for comment at the time of reporting.
This breakdown in consular service undermines the government’s digitization drive and perpetuates a frustrating reality for citizens abroad, challenging the narrative of seamless bureaucratic reform.
Sources: Viral social media footage
