Nigerians living in the Diaspora have issued a passionate call for urgent government action to resolve the persistent and deeply frustrating difficulties associated with obtaining National Identification Numbers (NIN) and Nigerian passportsabroad.
The demand follows the release of a detailed report by a coalition of Diaspora groups, including the International Advocacy for Human Rights and Anti-Corruption (IAHRAC), Concerned Nigerians in Germany, and the Nigeria Business Forum, Switzerland. The report, based on a strategic meeting and cross-country survey in Europe and North America, highlights the systemic challenges faced by Nigerians overseas.
Systemic Failures and Exploitation Risks
The groups noted that applicants frequently face prolonged delays and are forced to incur additional travel burdens to distant centres for simple verification or collection.
A major point of contention is the current NIN registration model’s overreliance on private agents. This has resulted in a host of problems, including inconsistent procedures, high fees, and a general state of widespread dissatisfaction. The groups expressed grave concerns that irregular fees, unpredictable processing timelines, and inadequate oversight are fueling potential exploitation of citizens seeking reliable identification services.
Key Demands for Digital Transformation
To remedy these issues, the Diaspora communities presented a clear roadmap for reform, stressing the need for the urgent digitalisation and full modernisation of both the NIN and passport systems. This is necessary to create a secure, fully digital system that Nigerians worldwide can access without intermediaries.
Crucially, they recommended that Nigerians abroad should be able to access both NIN and passport services simultaneously at embassies and consulates. This measure would significantly reduce duplication, stress, and unnecessary logistical complications.
Furthermore, they called for improved funding for foreign missions, upgraded equipment, and increased staffing to strengthen the digital infrastructure needed to manage the increased demand for services. They also proposed the creation of mobile registration units across major global cities to alleviate the travel burdens currently imposed on applicants.
