A state of emergency regarding passport issuing was declared on Friday by Caroline Adepoju, acting comptroller general of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).
During her working visit to Lagos, Adepoju stated that it was necessary to solve the difficulties Nigerians suffer in getting international passports.
The acting immigration head opened a state-of-the-art Visa on Arrival Lounge at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, according to a statement from NIS spokesperson Tony Akuneme.
The NIS director used the occasion to make an extensive plan of action to adequately address the problems public.
She claimed that the facility was evidence of the NIS’ dedication to enhancing travelers’ overall travel experiences when entering Nigeria.
She claims that by declaring a state of emergency on passport-related difficulties, NIS has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the obstacles Nigerians encounter while applying for passports.
All stakeholders are urged to give priority to efficiency, transparency, and excellence in service delivery, she said.
Ms. Adepoju instructed all passport control officers, pertinent units, and staff, including those at missions abroad, to immediately remove any obstacles stopping Nigerians from obtaining passports.
“NIS is enhancing the passport application and issuing process by utilizing technology and putting in place strong administrative controls. As the service takes decisive action to address the passport situation, we implore all Nigerians to exercise patience and cooperation.
Adepoju gave the people the reassurance that every eligible Nigerian who needed a passport could quickly get one.
In order to assess the issue personally, Adepoju also made an unplanned trip to the Alausa passport office.
She emphasized in her speech the need to remove any artificial bottlenecks that are slowing down the passport application process. She emphasized that in order to ensure more effective and simplified service delivery, the NIS management was completely committed to correcting institutional and technology-based shortcomings.
Additionally, Ms. Adepoju, who understood the value of community involvement and collaboration, launched a grassroots movement to raise awareness of traditional rulers.
She visited the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu and used the opportunity to request the support of traditional leaders around the country for NIS initiatives in solving social vices.
(NAN)