Some Nigerians living abroad, under the aegis of International Advocacy for Human Rights and Anti-Corruption, have decried the challenges they face in securing National Identification Numbers (NIN) and renewing Nigerian Passports abroad, and are calling for the government’s intervention to address the difficulties.
Members of the group, which comprises concerned Nigerians in Germany and the Nigeria Business Forum, Switzerland, released a statement on Monday, co-signed by Okoro Akinyemi of IAHRAC, Lewis Ehiwario of Concerned Nigerians, and Dozie Ugochukwu of the Nigeria Business Forum.
The statement noted that this appeal came after a comprehensive report was issued in Abuja, stating the difficulties Nigerians in the diaspora encounter, following thorough consultations and surveys among Nigerians living in the diaspora, including Europe and North America.
They disclosed that the survey was to identify persistent challenges and capture common experiences from different regions.
“Nigerians abroad frequently face prolonged delays and additional travel burdens while trying to obtain or verify their NIN. Many applicants reported systemic obstacles that make timely processing extremely difficult,” the statement said.
The groups appealed for swift digitalization and modernization of the NIN and passport processes, emphasizing the need for better funding for foreign missions, upgraded facilities, more personnel, and clearer immigration procedures.
“Nigerians abroad should be able to access both services simultaneously at embassies to reduce duplication, stress, and unnecessary logistical complications.
“Embassies require strengthened digital infrastructure capable of managing increased service demand and expanded responsibilities,” the statement added.
Referring to a survey conducted across the Diaspora, the groups expressed worries about the ongoing NIN registration system.
“Overreliance on private agents has resulted in inconsistent procedures, high fees, and widespread dissatisfaction among Nigerians seeking reliable identification services abroad.
“Irregular fees, unpredictable processing timelines, and inadequate oversight have fueled concerns about possible exploitation,” the statement noted.
The groups emphasized the importance of a secure, fully digital NIN system that Nigerians everywhere can access without relying on middlemen.
They also suggested that embassies and consulates should manage NIN and passport services directly, and recommended establishing mobile registration units in major cities worldwide to ease travel challenges for applicants.