After expressing dissatisfaction with the Nigerian Immigration Service NIS over high level extortions and delays at the various passport offices,the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, says the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has cleared about 60,000 passport backlog within four working days.
Tunji – Ojo said this on Tuesday in Abuja when he received Dr Betta Edu,the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation on a courtesy call to his office
The Minister’s spokesman,Alao Babatunde quoted his principal as saying “When we came on board, the passport crisis was an embarrassment. And, we said: it cannot continue!”
“As of this morning, I can tell you that about 60,000 passport backlogs have been cleared, especially 59,906. On Wednesday, September 6, 2023, when I gave the 2-week ultimatum, we had over 200,000 backlogs. We have recorded progress, and I maintain my word that those backlogs must be cleared.”
Earlier ,Edu said the visit was to seek partnership with the ministry in tackling challenges of human trafficking, poor welfare of veterans’ underemployment, and poverty among citizens.
Edu said the ministry was in the best position to solve issues of human trafficking as it plays a supervisory role on the NIS.
The Interior Ministry assured her of support saying “His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed us to see the place of partnership as agents of his #RenewedHope Agenda, and we are here to deliver on this mandate,”
“We assure you of our support. Your initiative is progressive and commendable, especially at this crucial time in the history of our country. There is a lot of work to be done, and we cannot work in silos as the President has directed.” Tunji – Ojo said
