Diaspora groups condemn delays in NIN and passport services and urge the government to modernise identity and travel systems for Nigerians abroad
Nigerian Diaspora groups, operating under the International Advocacy for Human Rights and Anti-Corruption, Concerned Nigerians in Germany, and the Nigeria Business Forum in Switzerland, on Monday in Abuja condemned prolonged delays affecting NIN and passport services for citizens living abroad.
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The joint statement, signed by Okoro Akinyemi, Lewis Ehiwario and Dozie Ugochokwu, followed the release of a detailed report that documented persistent difficulties encountered by Nigerians across Europe and North America.
The groups said the findings emerged from extensive consultations and a cross-country survey that highlighted systemic problems within overseas identity and travel service channels.
The groups stated that many Nigerians abroad face long processing times, irregular charges and repeated travel burdens while attempting to obtain or verify compulsory national documentation.
They warned that the situation had become untenable and risked deepening frustration within the wider Diaspora community.
According to the statement, overreliance on private agents had created inconsistent procedures and unpredictable outcomes, prompting widespread concern about weak oversight.
The groups described the current system as inefficient and noted that many applicants struggle to access reliable information on requirements and timelines.
The organisations called for a secure, fully digitalised framework capable of supporting NIN and passport services within embassies and consulates.
They said foreign missions require stronger digital infrastructure, upgraded equipment and improved staffing to manage growing demand.
They also proposed mobile registration units in major global cities to ease travel pressure on applicants.
The statement emphasised that Nigerians abroad should be able to obtain both documents in the same location to prevent duplication and unnecessary hardship.
The groups said better coordination would restore confidence in the process and strengthen national identity management.
The groups appealed to the Federal Government to intervene swiftly, warning that the credibility of the system depends on transparency, efficiency and accountability.
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They stressed that modernising the process would reflect Nigeria’s commitment to its citizens worldwide and ensure a more dignified experience for applicants.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
