Nigeria’s Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has announced the upcoming launch of the biometric passport application system for Nigerians residing in the United Kingdom and other countries.
The initiative, which aims to streamline the passport renewal process, is set to go live in the UK, Italy, and the United States on Friday, November 15, and will expand to other countries globally by December 1.
High-Level Discussions in the UK
Tunji-Ojo recently led a delegation, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, to meet with UK officials, including Home Secretary Rt. Hon. Yvette Cooper, to discuss the project.
The talks also focused on enhancing cooperation in data security to improve the efficiency of public service delivery.
“In line with our initiative to extend contactless biometrics solutions to the UK, having successfully launched in Canada with an impressive success rate, I also visited the Nigeria High Commission to reaffirm our support for attachés working to enhance services for Nigerians abroad,” Tunji-Ojo stated in a post on X.
He added, “We discussed mutual goals to strengthen security, efficiency, and service delivery, demonstrating our administration’s dedication to sustainable development through cooperation and shared purpose.”
Advanced Biometric Technology
The NIS Contactless Biometrics App, developed in collaboration with two local companies, Iris Smart Technologies and Newworks, enables remote capture of facial and fingerprint biometrics for passport renewal applicants.
The system had earlier been launched in Canada on November 1, receiving positive feedback.
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) explained the app’s functionality in a detailed thread on X, emphasizing its user-friendly design and the convenience it offers to Nigerians living abroad.
Simplifying Passport Renewals
Nigerian authorities have faced long-standing criticism over the cumbersome passport renewal process for citizens at home and abroad.
The launch of the contactless biometric system is part of broader efforts to address these challenges.
“This initiative will provide relief to millions of Nigerians who have encountered difficulties renewing their passports,” the NIS stated.
“It demonstrates our commitment to leveraging technology to improve public services.”
The new system is expected to enhance access to essential services while improving data security and efficiency in passport issuance globally.
Support InfoStride News' Credible Journalism: Only credible journalism can guarantee a fair, accountable and transparent society, including democracy and government. It involves a lot of efforts and money. We need your support. Click here to Donate