The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), has expressed its appreciation to the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji Ojo, and his team for implementing recent innovations in the passport application and collection processes, aimed at enhancing efficiency for Nigerians living abroad.

Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, lauded the Ministry’s initiatives, noting that Nigerians in the diaspora are enthusiastic about the upcoming changes.

“Nigerians abroad have long anticipated improvements in accessing passport services,” she stated. “This revolution in the application and collection process is a much-needed change that will ease the burden on our citizens globally.”

Dabiri-Erewa further emphasized NiDCOM’s commitment to supporting these reforms through advocacy and sensitization efforts, stating that “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, Minister Tunji-Ojo reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to collaborating with NiDCOM and the Nigeria Immigration Service.

He underscored the importance of establishing a structured partnership through a Tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

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

The new contactless biometrics innovation offers several advantages, including the elimination of long travel times, savings on hotel reservations, and prevention of work absenteeism. The contactless option will be available for renewals and for individuals aged 18 and above.

This initiative launches today, November 1, in Canada, November 15 in the United States, and December 1 in all other countries.