Nigerian Immigration Service Clarifies Passport Application Requirements

The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has provided an explanation on the requirements for passport applicants to prove their Nigerian citizenship. In response to criticism from Tayo Oviosu on X (formerly Twitter), the NIS stated that while applicants must provide proof of state of origin, physical travel to one's state is not necessary.

According to the NIS, most states have liaison offices located in other states that are empowered to issue the required 'indigenousness document' to prove citizenship. This means that passport applicants can obtain the necessary documents from these offices without having to travel to their state of origin.

The Immigration Service emphasized that each document required from passport applicants has been carefully considered and is legally supported by government laws and policies. "Every document that the Nigeria Immigration Service demands from passport applicants is well-considered and backed by specific laws and policy directives as sanctioned by the Federal Government through the Ministry of Interior," the NIS stated.

The agency explained that the requirement to provide proof of state of origin is in place to authenticate the applicant's claim of Nigerian citizenship. The indigenship document links the individual to a local government area in the country, validating their citizenship beyond reasonable doubt.

Why this matters: The clarification from the Nigerian Immigration Service addresses concerns raised by citizens regarding the perceived inconvenience and logistical challenges of obtaining necessary documents for passport applications. By highlighting the availability of state liaison offices, the NIS aims to streamline the process and ensure that Nigerians can access passport services more efficiently.

The Nigerian Immigration Service reiterated that the documentation requirements for passport applications are essential to maintain the integrity of the process and ensure that only eligible Nigerian citizens are issued passports. The Service remains committed to facilitating smooth and efficient passport services while upholding the legal and policy frameworks governing citizenship verification.

Key Takeaways

• NIS requires proof of state of origin for passport applicants.
• Applicants can obtain documents from state liaison offices, no travel required.
• NIS says documentation requirements are legally supported and carefully considered.
• Proof of state of origin authenticates applicant's Nigerian citizenship.
• NIS aims to streamline passport process while upholding citizenship verification.