
The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) is set to introduce a contactless passport renewal system for Nigerians living in Europe, with the United Kingdom serving as the central hub for coordination.
The initiative, scheduled for launch on February 7, 2025, will allow Nigerians abroad to renew their passports online without visiting physical offices, making the process more convenient and cost-effective.
NIS Comptroller General, Kemi Nandap, announced the development during a visit to the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, in Abuja. According to a statement by NiDCOM spokesperson Abdur-Rahman Balogun, the new system is designed to streamline the renewal process, reducing travel and wait times.
However, Nandap clarified that the system is strictly for renewals and does not apply to first-time applicants or minors. She also noted that Nigerians abroad can initiate the renewal process up to a year before their passport expires.

“This initiative will enable Nigerians in the diaspora to apply for and renew their passports online from the comfort of their homes,” she stated
The introduction of this digital passport system aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s directive to simplify passport processing for Nigerians abroad. As part of this effort, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has approved a new passport processing facility in New York to clear backlogs, with plans to establish similar centers in other countries.
Dabiri-Erewa welcomed the initiative, describing it as a major step toward efficient and secure passport processing. She assured that NiDCOM would continue to support and oversee its implementation.
The contactless passport system was first introduced in Canada, where it received positive feedback from Nigerians

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