The Nigerian Federal Government has introduced a new contactless passport renewal system, developed entirely by two Nigerian software companies, aimed at simplifying the passport renewal process for Nigerians living abroad. This innovative system, launched on November 1, 2024, in Canada, enables eligible Nigerians to renew their passports remotely without visiting Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) offices. The Nigeria Contactless passport promises to make the passport acquisition and renewal process much more seamless for everyone.
Made-in-Nigeria Tech Solution
Speaking on Channels Television, Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo confirmed that the government intentionally chose to work with Nigerian software companies, demonstrating confidence in local expertise. Though the names of the companies were not disclosed, Tunji-Ojo, an IT cybersecurity expert with over 20 years of experience, expressed his satisfaction with the indigenous technology.
Alleviating Challenges for Nigerians Abroad
This new solution addresses issues that Nigerians in the diaspora face, such as traveling long distances, missing work, and covering accommodation costs for in-person passport renewals. Tunji-Ojo highlighted examples of Nigerians in Canada and the UK who often endure lengthy processes for renewals, which the new system aims to resolve.
While the system has faced minor initial glitches, Tunji-Ojo assured the public that efforts are underway to resolve these issues and enhance the system’s performance. He clarified that some delays experienced by applicants, such as in Canada where processing times have stretched up to 42 days, are due to limited processing capacity at Nigerian embassies, not the system itself.
How the Contactless System Works
This contactless passport renewal leverages biometric databases, facial recognition, and live authentication checks, enabling Nigerians over the age of 18 with existing biometric records to renew passports via a mobile app. However, first-time applicants will still need to visit NIS offices for biometric capture.
To renew a passport, applicants can either use the NIS portal or the NIS mobile app. The process involves creating a profile, verifying eligibility, providing identity details, uploading necessary documents, and making the required payment. Once approved, renewed passports are delivered directly to applicants.
Expansion Plans and Centralized Personalization Center
The government plans to roll out the system in other countries, including the UK, USA, and Italy on November 15, and globally by December 1. Additionally, a centralized personalization center is being established in Abuja, equipped to print up to 32,000 passports daily, aimed at reducing delays and improving efficiency in passport issuance.
This initiative represents a significant step forward in enhancing accessibility for Nigerians worldwide, offering a more streamlined and convenient solution for passport renewals.
