Online Passport Portal: My experience getting a Nigerian Passport- Efosa
For this PoliZ life story, we’re sharing Efosa’s experience with the new online passport portal in Nigeria. It’s a step-by-step account of what it’s really like to get a Nigerian passport using the system.
With PoliZ Life, we highlight stories like these to show how policy and government decisions impact the everyday lives of Nigerian youths.
I decided to apply for my Nigerian passport online, thinking it would be a straightforward process. Little did I know, I would end up being frustrated. After completing the online registration, the physical capturing was next.
When I arrived, the first question was, “Who is assisting you?”
Immediately I explained that I applied online, I was directed from one person to another.
I tried to explain my situation but I was not getting anywhere. After a day spent waiting and being redirected, I left, feeling frustrated.I decided not to give up and returned for the capturing process. However, even with all my documents in order, I was informed I would need to wait because I had registered online.
On subsequent visits, I still had the same issues. Each time I went, I was asked the same questions “Did you register online?” and “Who is assisting you?”
It became clear that those who paid unofficial fees or had connections found it easier to obtain their passports. After waiting for a long while, I finally did my capturing.
When I asked the timeline for receiving my passport, I was asked to pay an additional fee of 10,000 Naira to fast-track the process or wait for an extended four months.
This entire experience left me disappointed with the passport application system.
Efosa’s experience shows that while the online passport portal is a good move, there’s still work to be done to make it smoother for everyone. The system has its perks, but it also has its hiccups.
If you like what you’ve just read, don’t stop here! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram to stay updated every time we share new content.
Want to take it a step further? Join our WhatsApp community and be part of the conversation in real time! Let’s keep the energy going together.
