NIS to Introduce Emergency Passport for Nigerians Abroad!

NIS to Introduce Emergency Passport for Nigerians Abroad!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has unveiled plans to launch a Single Travel Emergency Passport (STEP) — a temporary biometric travel document for Nigerians overseas with lost, expired, or stolen passports.

What We Know:

• The STEP document will be issued by Nigerian embassies and consulates.
• It is valid for one-way travel back to Nigeria only.
• The initiative aims to improve consular support and reduce bottlenecks for stranded citizens.

Quote:

“This emergency passport offers secure, verifiable identity and swift repatriation for Nigerians in distress.”
— Kemi Nandap, Comptroller-General of Immigration

Why It Matters:

• Eases the burden on Nigerians stuck abroad without valid passports.
• Enhances national security by incorporating biometric verification.
• Aligns with NIS reforms to digitise and modernise passport systems.

What to Watch:

• Rollout timelines and country-specific implementation.
• Public awareness and uptake of STEP by diaspora communities.
• Collaboration with foreign immigration authorities and airlines.

Sources:

1. NIS Headquarters Briefing – Nov. 5, 2025
2. Ministry of Foreign Affairs Circular
3. The Nation – “NIS to launch emergency travel passport for Nigerians abroad”