NiDCOM Boss, Abike Dabiri Commends Ministry of Interior for New Passport Application Innovations

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has praised the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and his team for introducing new innovations in the passport application and collection processes aimed at enhancing efficiency for Nigerians living abroad.

Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, expressed appreciation for the Ministry’s efforts, stating, “Nigerians abroad have long awaited improvements in accessing passport services.”

“This revolution in the application and collection process is a much-needed change that will ease the burden on our citizens globally.”

Dabiri-Erewa highlighted NiDCOM’s commitment to supporting these reforms through advocacy and sensitization efforts.

She said, “Advocacy is at the heart of NiDCOM’s work.”

“We are prepared to collaborate fully with the Ministry of Interior and the Nigeria Immigration Service to ensure that Nigerians in the Diaspora are well informed about these developments and continue to be a bridge between Nigeria and its diaspora.”

In response, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Minister of Interior, emphasized the Ministry’s dedication to working closely with NiDCOM and the Nigeria Immigration Service, proposing a Tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to structure the partnership.

“Our goal is to ensure effective communication and engagement with Nigerians abroad. We are looking forward to strong collaboration, particularly in advocacy and sensitization, to make these reforms successful,” Tunji-Ojo stated.

The newly introduced Contactless Biometrics innovation offers multiple benefits, including reducing long travel hours, eliminating hotel reservation costs, and minimizing work absenteeism.

The contactless option is available for passport renewals and for individuals over 18 years of age. It launched today, November 1, in Canada and will roll out on November 15 in the United States, with global availability beginning December 1.