Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has commended the Ministry of Interior, led by Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for implementing groundbreaking changes to streamline passport application and collection for Nigerians abroad.
Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, expressed gratitude for these advancements, noting, “Nigerians abroad have long awaited improvements in accessing passport services.
This revolution in the application and collection process is a much-needed change that will ease the burden on our citizens globally.”
Dabiri-Erewa underscored NiDCOM’s dedication to aiding these reforms through widespread advocacy and awareness campaigns.
“Advocacy is at the heart of NiDCOM’s work. We are prepared 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,” she said.
Minister of Interior Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo responded by highlighting the Ministry’s commitment to fostering a strong partnership with NiDCOM and the Nigeria Immigration Service.
He proposed a Tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalize and strengthen this collaboration.
“Our goal is to ensure effective communication and engagement with Nigerians abroad. We are looking forward to strong collaboration, particularly in advocacy and sensitization, to make these reforms successful,” Tunji-Ojo emphasized.
The new Contactless Biometrics system is designed to make passport renewals more convenient. Benefits include reducing the need for long-distance travel, eliminating accommodation expenses, and cutting down on work absences. This option is specifically available for passport renewals and applicants over 18.
The service launched on November 1 in Canada, with plans to extend to the United States on November 15. By December 1, it will be available worldwide, providing greater accessibility for Nigerians across the globe.
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