The Nigerian Federal Government has officially announced an increase in passport fees for citizens residing within the country, with the new rates set to take effect from September 1st, 2024. This adjustment is part of the government's ongoing efforts to uphold the quality and security of the Nigerian Standard Passport, which is an essential document for international travel and identification.
The announcement was made by DCI KT Udo, the Service Public Relations Officer at the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) Headquarters. The statement was shared on the official X (formerly known as Twitter) account of the NIS. According to the revised pricing structure, the cost of obtaining a 32-page passport booklet with a 5-year validity will increase from N35,000 to N50,000. Similarly, the 64-page passport booklet, which offers a 10-year validity, will see its fee rise from N70,000 to N100,000.
The government explained that this upward review is necessary to maintain the standards of the Nigerian passport, ensuring that it continues to meet international requirements and serves as a credible identification document for Nigerian citizens. The NIS emphasized that this adjustment in fees is crucial to covering the increasing costs associated with passport production and issuance. The rising costs are attributed to the need for advanced security features and materials that comply with global standards, making the Nigerian passport both secure and reliable.
It is important to note that these changes in passport fees only apply to Nigerians living within the country. The fees for Nigerians in the Diaspora will remain unchanged. This distinction highlights the government's recognition of the different challenges faced by citizens abroad and its commitment to supporting them.
While the NIS acknowledged that the increase in fees might cause some inconvenience to applicants, it reassured the public that this decision was made with careful consideration. The NIS remains committed to delivering high-quality services and maintaining transparency in its operations. The agency has promised to continue working towards improving the efficiency of the passport issuance process, ensuring that Nigerians receive their passports in a timely manner despite the changes.
In summary, the fee increase is a necessary step to ensure that the Nigerian passport remains a trusted and secure document on the global stage. The government’s decision reflects its dedication to upholding the integrity of the passport, which is a vital tool for Nigerian citizens both at home and abroad.
