ABUJA: The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has commended the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and his team for the recent innovations in passport application and collection processes, which aim to improve efficiency for Nigerians abroad.
According to Voice of Nigeria, the Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa praised the Ministry’s efforts, stating that Nigerians in the Diaspora are excited about the changes taking place. She mentioned that Nigerians abroad have long anticipated improvements in accessing passport services. Dr. Dabiri-Erewa emphasized that this revolution in the application and collection process is a much-needed change that will ease the burden on Nigerian citizens globally.
Dr. Dabiri-Erewa highlighted NiDCOM’s readiness to support these reforms through advocacy and sensitisation. She noted that advocacy is central to NiDCOM’s work and expressed the Commission’s preparedness to collaborate fully with the Ministry of Interior and the Nigeria Immigration Service to
ensure that Nigerians in the Diaspora are well-informed about these developments and continue to be a bridge between Nigeria and its diaspora.
In response, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo underscored the Ministry’s commitment to working closely with NiDCOM and the Nigeria Immigration Service. He stressed the need for a structured partnership through a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Tunji-Ojo stated that their goal is to ensure effective communication and engagement with Nigerians abroad, and they are looking forward to strong collaboration, particularly in advocacy and sensitisation, to make these reforms successful.
Meanwhile, the contactless biometrics innovation in the passport application process eliminates long travel or flight hours, saves hotel reservation costs, and prevents work absenteeism, among other benefits. The contactless option is available for renewals and for persons above 18 years of age. It is set to commence on November 1 in Canada, November 15 in the US, an
d December 1 in all other countries.