Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has announced an immediate investigation into the allegations made by Nigerians in London over an extra $300 price for expedited passport procedures at the Nigerian Embassy, in response to a growing number of complaints.
This was disclosed by Tunji-Ojo via his official X handle on Wednesday.
Tunji-Ojo pledged that in keeping with the department’s goal of providing effective service in line with international best practices, appropriate measures will be implemented as soon as possible after the investigation.
“My attention has been drawn to the complaints at the Nigerian Embassy in London regarding issues with passport applications.
“I have ordered an immediate investigation into the matters arising, and I assure you that corresponding actions will be taken soonest.
“We appreciate the patience and understanding of all affected citizens as we strive towards an efficient service delivery in line with global best practices,” the Interior Minister’s tweet read.
The Nigeria Immigration Service has released a statement denying the allegation against the Ministry of Interior, that it charged a $300 fast-track passport fee at the Nigerian Embassy in London.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Service Public Relations Officer, on Tuesday. It stressed that there have been no changes to the official processing fees for obtaining a Nigerian passport overseas.
“Being the Service directly charged with the statutory responsibility of issuing Passports at home and abroad, the NIS can attest that the Official processing fees for the acquisition of Passports have been consistent without additional charges.
“The Nigeria Immigration Service hereby debunks the derogatory news report as false, unfounded, and so should be disregarded in its entirety,” the statement.
The NIS further stated that, excluding bank fees, the permitted cost to obtain a Nigerian foreign passport in the UK is $150 for a five-year validity period and $230 for a ten-year validity period.
However, several Nigerians have refuted the recent post on the X accounts of the NIS claiming that there are no additional charges for passport applications abroad.