In a significant development, Nigerian Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has issued a no-nonsense directive at the Gwagwalada passport office, stating “I don’t want to hear that you are collecting money for diesel or paper.” This pivotal statement comes amid widespread concerns about processing delays and alleged unofficial payments demanded from applicants seeking Nigerian passports. The minister’s surprise inspection revealed a concerning lack of efficiency, with few applicants attended to long after the official opening time, even in expedited service sections.
Minister Tunji-Ojo’s visit was a direct response to persistent complaints and reports circulating about the Nigerian Immigration Service passport office. His presence aimed to address these issues head-on, scrutinizing operations and engaging directly with both staff and the public. The minister’s firm stance underscores a commitment to improving public service delivery and eliminating corrupt practices that hinder citizens.
Featured snippet paragraph: The Nigerian Passport Office is facing scrutiny over processing delays and unofficial fees. Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has warned officials against collecting extra money for items like diesel or paper, emphasizing that all necessary service fees are covered by the official passport payment.
During his inspection, the minister specifically examined the VIP and Children’s sections. He expressed clear dissatisfaction with the slow pace of service, noting that the expedited sections were not operating as efficiently as they should. This observation highlights a systemic issue that needs immediate rectification to ensure timely passport issuance.
Tunji-Ojo directly confronted officials about the practice of collecting additional funds, reiterating that Nigerians have already paid the full amount for their passports and deserve diligent service. His directive aims to curb any form of extortion and ensure that official fees cover all operational costs, including essentials like fuel for generators.
He further questioned the current workflow, estimating that each enrolment process should ideally take around three minutes. The minister criticized the method of completing all enrolments before commencing biometric captures, advocating for a concurrent approach to drastically reduce applicant waiting times.
Immigration officers attempted to explain the delays by citing the generator being switched on late, around 9 a.m., despite the office’s scheduled 8 a.m. opening. Minister Tunji-Ojo found this explanation unsatisfactory, pointing out that such delays translate to significant costs for applicants who have other pressing commitments.
The minister also observed the underutilization of the VIP section. He suggested that redirecting applicants from more congested areas to this section could significantly improve the overall service flow and reduce bottlenecks.
Tunji-Ojo reminded the immigration officers that their uniform signifies a dedication to public service and sacrifice. He asserted that in the pursuit of efficient and fair service delivery, “Nigeria has no VIP,” meaning all citizens should receive prompt and equitable treatment.
The minister’s intervention signifies a critical moment for the Nigerian passport application process. His commitment to transparency and efficiency is expected to drive substantial improvements in service delivery for citizens applying for passports.
This crackdown on alleged corruption and inefficiency at the passport office is a positive step towards restoring public trust in government services. The focus on accountability and timely service is crucial for a nation striving for progress and good governance.
Looking ahead, the implementation of the minister’s directives will be closely watched. The expectation is for a swift and noticeable improvement in the passport application process, ensuring that citizens can obtain their travel documents without unnecessary delays or financial burdens.
This situation highlights the importance of continuous oversight and accountability in public institutions. The minister’s proactive approach demonstrates a commitment to addressing critical issues that affect the daily lives of Nigerians.
The implications of this event extend beyond just passport processing. It sets a precedent for how other public service departments should operate, emphasizing integrity and citizen-centric service delivery as paramount.
Understanding the complexities of passport application processes and the challenges faced by agencies is important, but it should not serve as an excuse for corruption or inefficiency. The minister’s message is clear: results and public satisfaction are the ultimate measures of success.
