Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has confirmed the swift clearance of nearly 60,000 passport backlogs within just four working days. This accomplishment follows the minister’s directive last week Thursday to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to address and eliminate all pending passport applications.
During a courtesy visit by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, Tunji-Ojo disclosed this significant progress on Tuesday in Abuja. The visit was initiated by the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to explore collaboration with the Ministry of Interior in addressing challenges related to human trafficking and related issues.
Tunji-Ojo emphasized that beyond humanitarian efforts aimed at combating human trafficking, the NIS must play a crucial role in reshaping the narrative regarding passport issuance. He highlighted that upon assuming office, the prevailing passport crisis was a source of embarrassment, prompting the decision that it could not persist.
The minister provided an update on the passport backlog clearance, stating, “As of this morning, I can tell you that about 60,000 passport backlogs have been cleared, specifically 59,906.” He added that when he issued the two-week ultimatum on September 6, 2023, there were over 200,000 backlogs. The significant progress made reaffirms his commitment to ensure that all remaining backlogs are also cleared.
Tunji-Ojo expressed the readiness of his ministry to collaborate with the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to address various challenges, including exploring ways to enhance the welfare of inmates in correctional facilities, who are also Nigerian citizens.
He noted, “Let’s see how they can benefit from your welfare packages. Of course, there is a lot we can achieve together.” This collaborative effort reflects the government’s commitment to improving the welfare and well-being of its citizens.
