Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Minister of Interior, said on Monday that the passport application automation process will commence on January 8, 2024.
The minister stated in December that the federal government was trying to implement a fully automated passport application system in the country.
The minister indicated at the time that the automated application system was “99% done,” and that the procedure would entail submitting passport images and supporting documentation.
Meanwhile, Ojo revealed on Monday, while reviewing the Nigeria Immigration Service’s facilities in Abuja with the Service’s Comptroller General, Wura-Ola Adepoju, that Nigerians will be able to apply and finish their passport application process online without human touch.
The minister said that the ministry has commenced the training process that will lead to the live launching of the automation.
He said, “We are good to go live. We are starting the training and on January 8, the solution will be live and direct for Nigerians to have a good feel, a sweet experience based on the Renewed Hope of Mr President.
“We have been able to reduce human contact in passport acquisition to the minimum.”
He added that the initiative will improve the security architecture of the country, prompting a quick detection of fake passport applications and reducing bottlenecks.
