The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced an increase in passport fees, effective September 1, 2024.
According to a statement released on Wednesday by Mr. Kenneth Udo, the Service Public Relations Officer (SPRO) of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), decision aims to ensure the continued quality and integrity of the Nigerian Standard Passport.
Previously, a 32-page passport booklet with a five-year validity cost N35,000. Under the new fee structure, it will now cost N50,000. Similarly, the 64-page passport booklet, which is valid for ten years, will increase from N70,000 to N100,000.
Despite these changes, passport fees for Nigerians living abroad will remain the same.
The NIS statement mentioned, “The Service regrets any inconvenience this increase might cause prospective applicants. We assure Nigerians of our unwavering commitment to transparency and quality service delivery at all times.”
Mr. Kenneth Udo explained that the adjustment is necessary to cover the costs associated with maintaining high security standards and producing passports that meet international standards.
“Increasing the fees allows us to invest in better technology and security features,” Mr. Udo said. “This ensures that Nigerian passports are not only secure but also respected globally.”
Passport production involves advanced technology to prevent counterfeiting and ensure the security of personal information. This includes biometric features like fingerprint and facial recognition, which are crucial in preventing identity theft and fraud.
Fee Structure and Current Services
Under the new fee structure:
- A 32-page passport with a five-year validity will cost N50,000.
- A 64-page passport with a ten-year validity will cost N100,000.