The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, affirmed on Monday that the automation of passport applications will kick off on January 8, 2024.
Previously, in December, the minister had disclosed the Federal Government’s commitment to achieving a fully automated passport application system in the country. At that time, he stated that the automated application system was “99% complete,” including features such as uploading passport photos and supporting documents.
While inspecting the facilities of the Nigeria Immigration Service in Abuja alongside the Comptroller General of the Service, Wura-Ola Adepoju, Ojo confirmed that Nigerians could apply and complete their passport application process online without human contact.
The minister emphasised that the ministry has initiated the training process, leading to the live launch of the automation. He stated, “We are ready to go live. We are commencing training, and on January 8, the solution will be live and direct for Nigerians to have a positive experience based on the Renewed Hope of Mr President.”
“We have successfully minimised human contact in passport acquisition,” he added. The initiative aims to enhance the security architecture of the country, facilitating the swift detection of fake passport applications and reducing bureaucratic obstacles.