TDThe Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has issued a strongly worded public notice refuting false claims circulating about passport applications and payment procedures.
The Service reaffirmed that the official portal remains the only authorized platform for all passport-related services, warning Nigerians against falling victim to fraudulent schemes.
Key Clarifications from NIS
- Exclusive Use of Official Portal: All passport applications and payments must be processed through the official website: passport.immigration.gov.ng.
The Service stressed that this portal is the sole legitimate channel for such transactions.
- No Third-Party Partnerships: The NIS categorically denied any partnership with religious groups, private organizations, or individuals for passport services.
Claims suggesting otherwise were described as deliberate misinformation aimed at deceiving the public.
- Fraudulent Links Warning: Nigerians are urged to avoid unauthorized payment links or agents.
Any transaction conducted outside official channels is done at the applicant’s sole risk, with the Service disclaiming responsibility for losses or inconveniences.
- Investigations Ongoing: The NIS confirmed that investigations are underway to trace the origin of these false claims.
Authorities pledged to take appropriate legal action against those found culpable of spreading misinformation.
Official Statement
DCI Akinsola Akinlabi, Service Public Relations Officer, emphasized that the NIS strictly adheres to government financial regulations.
He explained that the Service works only with licensed and accredited payment providers clearly indicated within its authorized portal.
“Payments made outside the official channels provided by the NIS are at the owner’s sole risk.
“The Service takes no responsibility for any loss or inconvenience arising from such transactions,” Akinlabi stated.
He further assured Nigerians that the Service is continuously strengthening its systems and monitoring processes to prevent misuse, fraud, or misrepresentation.
Verified Communication Channels
To ensure transparency and accessibility, the NIS provided verified communication platforms for inquiries and assistance:
- X (Twitter): @nigimmigration
- Instagram: @nigimmigration
- Facebook: @nigimmigration
- Contact Center Numbers: 09121900655, 09121556359, 09121477092 (available 24/7)
- WhatsApp: 0916087800, 09117717772
These channels, the Service noted, are the only recognized avenues for official communication with the public.
Implications
This notice comes at a time when online fraud and impersonation schemes are on the rise, particularly targeting Nigerians seeking essential services such as passports.
The NIS’s clarification aims to:
- Protect applicants from exploitation by fraudulent agents.
- Reinforce transparency and accountability in service delivery.
- Restore public confidence in the passport application process.
Analysts note that the warning is timely, given the increasing sophistication of online scams that exploit citizens’ desperation for travel documents.
Conclusion
The Nigeria Immigration Service has made its position clear: passport applications and payments must be conducted exclusively through its official portal.
Citizens are urged to remain vigilant, avoid unauthorized agents, and rely only on verified communication channels to safeguard against fraud.
By issuing this public notice, the NIS seeks to reassure Nigerians of its commitment to integrity, accountability, and the protection of citizens from exploitation in the passport application process.
