Nigerian Passport Fees Skyrocket in FG’s Latest Hike

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a significant increase in the fees for obtaining Nigerian passports, set to take effect from September 1, 2024.

This decision, revealed by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), will see the cost of a 32-page passport booklet with a 5-year validity rise from ₦35,000 to ₦50,000. Similarly, the fee for a 64-page passport booklet with a 10-year validity will increase from ₦70,000 to ₦100,000.

The government justifies this hike as necessary to maintain the quality, security, and integrity of the Nigerian passport, ensuring it meets international standards.

The additional revenue generated from this increase is intended to fund improvements in passport production processes and the incorporation of advanced technology.

The decision has sparked mixed reactions among Nigerians. While some support the move, recognizing the need for a reliable and secure passport, others are concerned about the financial burden it may impose, particularly on those who require passports for work, study, or family visits abroad.

Critics argue that the increased fees could limit access to essential travel documents, especially for low-income citizens.

In response to these concerns, the NIS has emphasized its commitment to transparency and quality service delivery, reassuring citizens that the raised fees will be used to enhance the overall passport application and issuance process.

Notably, the passport fees for Nigerians residing in the diaspora will remain unchanged.

As the government implements this new fee structure, there are calls for exploring alternative revenue-generating strategies, such as stricter penalties for passport fraud or the introduction of subsidized fees for low-income citizens.

The impact of this policy on the broader population remains to be seen, but it is clear that the affordability of essential documents like passports is a critical issue for many Nigerians.

This development is a reminder of the ongoing challenges in balancing government revenue needs with the economic realities faced by citizens.