The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has introduced a new feature to its passport tracking system aimed at improving transparency and keeping applicants better informed about the status of their passports.
According to the Service, the new update, tagged “Passport Produced,” notifies applicants when their passports have been successfully produced and are ready for physical collection or awaiting courier delivery. The initiative is part of ongoing efforts by the NIS to enhance service delivery and align its operations with global best practices.
In a statement posted on its official X account on Thursday, the NIS explained that the feature provides clearer information to applicants who previously only saw general or ambiguous status updates. The Service noted that the update would help applicants track timelines more accurately and reduce anxiety associated with prolonged waiting periods.
“The new addition, tagged ‘PRODUCED (PASSPORT PRODUCED, READY FOR COLLECTION),’ includes a feature informing applicants when their passports are ready for collection,” the statement read. It added that the system also distinguishes between passports ready for physical pickup and those produced but not yet delivered by courier.
The development comes amid public concerns over delays in passport processing. Recently, investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo shared his experience of waiting several months for his passport renewal, despite completing payment and application processes. Soyombo disclosed that he paid N109,700 through the NIS portal in July 2025 but continued to receive a “passport pending production” notification.
In response, the NIS clarified that Soyombo’s passport had already been produced and was ready for delivery. The Service explained that delays can sometimes occur due to incomplete applications, security checks, or technical issues.
The NIS also highlighted its achievements, revealing that over 1.3 million passports were produced in 2025 alone. Additionally, it noted that Nigeria’s passport has recently improved its position on the Henley Passport Index, reflecting broader reforms within the system.
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