FG orders probe into $300 passport fee allegations at London Embassy

• Published On: 01 August 2024 at 17:03

Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Minister of Interior, has announced an immediate investigation into allegations made by Nigerians in London about a $300 fee for expedited passport procedures at the Nigerian Embassy, in response to a growing number of complaints.

Tunji-Ojo made the announcement via his official X Twitter on Wednesday.

Tunji-Ojo promised that, in keeping with the department's goal of delivering effective service in accordance with international best practices, relevant steps will be implemented as quickly as practicable following the investigation.

"My attention has been directed to reports at the Nigerian Embassy in London about problems with passport applications.

"I have requested an immediate inquiry into the problems raised, and I guarantee you that appropriate actions will be done as quickly as possible.

"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 minister's tweet stated.

The Nigeria Immigration Service has issued a statement rejecting allegations that the Ministry of Interior levied a $300 fast-track passport fee at the Nigerian Embassy in London.

This was revealed in a statement signed by the Service Public Relations Officer on Tuesday. It stated that the official processing fees for obtaining a Nigerian passport overseas have not changed.

"As the Service directly charged with the legislative obligation of granting passports at home and abroad, the NIS can verify that the official processing fees for passport acquisition have been consistent and free of additional expenses.

"The Nigeria Immigration Service hereby debunks the derogatory news report as false, unfounded, and so should be disregarded in its entirety," according to the statement.

The NIS further noted that, excluding bank costs, the maximum cost for obtaining a Nigerian foreign passport in the UK is $150 for a five-year validity period and $230 for a ten-year validity period.

However, some Nigerians have challenged a recent post on the NIS's X accounts that claimed there are no additional fees for passport applications abroad.