Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced yesterday that this vision has finally become a reality, fulfilling his promise to deploy a contactless solution for biometric capture.
The Minister convened a diverse group of stakeholders on Friday, October 4, including media representatives, top government officials, members of civil society organisations, and tech experts, to give them a sneak peek at the Nigerian Immigration Service’s cutting-edge contactless biometric capture passport application.
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Home biometrics: A new era in passport services
The contactless application is only available for passport renewals. When ready, passport-renewing applicants can capture their biometrics themselves at home, and the passport will be delivered to their home.
Passports will be issued centrally in Abuja starting in April 2025.
“This cutting-edge technology enhances the passport acquisition process by allowing eligible applicants to initiate and complete their applications seamlessly from the comfort of their homes or workplaces on their mobile devices. The new feature is undoubtedly a game-changer.” Said the minister.
He continued, “We are eager to roll it out in our new passport regime fully. Our goal remains to transform our systems and methods to align with global best practices, setting the pace for other nations to follow without compromising national security.
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Diaspora Nigerians prioritised for new program
“After previewing this solution with these stakeholders, we will incorporate their feedback to refine the system. In the coming days, we plan to launch this service for Nigerians in the diaspora.
“As a nation, we are setting new records, and it brings me great joy to see President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts bear fruit.”
The stakeholders present at the preview of the initiatives include Dr Joe Abah, the representative of the DG, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM); Dr Abike Dabiri; the representative of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), Emiola Joy; Gbenga Aruleba; Seun Okinbaloye; Soni Daniel; Victor Azu; Salihu Tanko Yakasai; Oluwaseyi Ayeni; Dr Segun Awosanya; Dr Paul Alaje; Engr. omotayo akeem; Rotimi Akinniyi; Precious Ogbuenyi; Jesupemi Are; Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) representative, Dr. Awogbemi Olanrewaju; and Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) representative, Mr. Clement Okoh.
“Together, we are making history, and I look forward to what we will achieve in the days ahead.” The minister assured.