- the STEP will serve as a temporary, single-entry travel document issued at Nigerian embassies
- It aims to strengthen identity verification, enhance service delivery
- global cooperation in addressing irregular migration, human trafficking
The Federal Government has unveiled plans to replace the existing Emergency Travel Certificate (ETC) with a Single Travel Emergency Passport (STEP), a new, secure document designed to assist Nigerians abroad in returning home when their passports are lost, stolen, or expired.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nanna Nandap, announced the initiative during the Joint Thematic Meeting of the Khartoum, Rabat, and Niamey Processes, co-hosted by Nigeria and France.
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According to a statement by the NIS Public Relations Officer, ACI Akinsola Akinlabi, the STEP will serve as a temporary, single-entry travel document issued at Nigerian embassies and consulates overseas.
It aims to strengthen identity verification, enhance service delivery, and ensure the safe return of stranded Nigerians.
The introduction of STEP aligns with the NIS reform agenda focused on improving identity management and border security in line with international standards.
The meeting brought together key agencies and partners in migration management, including NCFRMI, NAPTIP, ECOWAS, the African Union, the European Union, and representatives from several African and European countries.
Nandap emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to regional and global cooperation in addressing irregular migration, human trafficking, and migrant smuggling through enhanced border governance and international collaboration.
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