The much-awaited International Passport Automation System has been unveiled by Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
On January 8, 2024, it was declared that the automated passport system would go online at an assessment of Nigeria Immigration Service locations in Abuja.
The minister emphasised the importance of the new system in strengthening the country’s security architecture and safeguarding Nigerian residents’ comfort and convenience.
Tunji-Ojo emphasized the government’s commitment to putting a stop to the use of forged documents in passport applications.
During the unveiling ceremony, Minister Tunji-Ojo underscored the critical role of the new automated passport system in fortifying the country’s security architecture. By integrating advanced technology, the government aims to bolster its ability to verify the authenticity of passport applications, contributing significantly to the overall security and safety of Nigerian residents.
One of the key highlights of the automated passport system is its potential to enhance the comfort and convenience of Nigerian residents. The traditional passport application process has often been marred by delays, inefficiencies, and the risk of document forgery. The introduction of automation promises to streamline these procedures, ensuring a smoother experience for individuals seeking to obtain or renew their passports.
Minister Tunji-Ojo reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to eradicating the use of forged documents in passport applications. The automated system incorporates advanced security features, making it significantly more challenging for individuals to submit fake or manipulated information. This commitment aligns with the broader national agenda to foster integrity and transparency in government services.
The programme aims to minimise human interaction in the passport application process while providing applicants with a convenient and secure experience.
The minister underlined how crucial the new system is to bolstering Nigeria’s security framework and preserving the comfort and convenience of its citizens.
He said the Nigeria Immigration Service had deployed document verification personnel across all local government areas in the country to improve document verification.
Tunji-Ojo emphasized the government’s commitment to putting a stop to the use of forged documents in passport applications.
The introduction of the Automated Passport Application System by Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo represents a significant leap forward in the modernization of government services in Nigeria. This innovation not only strengthens the nation’s security infrastructure but also prioritizes the comfort and convenience of its residents. As the system undergoes assessment in Abuja, the government’s commitment to eradicating forged documents and embracing technological advancements bodes well for the future of passport issuance in Nigeria. The International Passport Automation System stands as a testament to the government’s dedication to efficiency, security, and the seamless facilitation of international travel for its citizens.
