Nigeria implements automated passport registration to counter fraud
Nigeria’s Interior Minister and the Nigerian Immigration Services (NIS) have introduced an International Automated Passport Registration System to enhance security by timely identification of fraudulent passport applications.
The E-passport Processing System initiated by Interior Minister Olubumi Tunji-Ojo went live on January 8 and will be implemented through smart document verification by officers stationed nationwide.
It also seeks to reduce the human interface in the passport application process.
“The system will ensure thorough scrutiny of passport applications across all Local Government Areas, contributing to strengthening our national security,” Tunji-Ojo was quoted by News Agency of Nigeria.
The initiative has since been commended by the National Civil Society Council (NCSCN) who say that it represents a significant advancement in the country’s security and migration frameworks and will assist with speedy detection of fraudulent passports.
“This is aimed at reducing crime and illegal migrations while reinforcing the overall efficiency and reliability of the passport issuance system,” parts of a statement jointly signed by NCSCN’s Executive Director Ambassador Blessing Akinlosotu and Executive Secretary Dr. Raymond Edoh said.
They further lauded the Interior Minister for spearheading the swift clearance of a backlog of 204,000 passport applications within two weeks, while easing the passport acquisition process.
