If you’ve noticed the hefty uptick in the cost of getting a Nigerian passport—you're not imagining things. Over the past few years, substantially steeper fees have been introduced—and here's why, and how Nigerians are responding.

A Closer Look at the Rising Numbers

• September 2024: The 32-page passport (valid for 5 years) surged from ?35,000 to ?50,000; the 64-page version (10 years) jumped from ?70,000 to ?100,000. NairametricsVanguard NewsThe Nation Newspaper
• Starting September 1, 2025: These prices will double: the 32-page now ?100,000, and the 64-page ?200,000. Diaspora applicants remain unchanged. The Guardian Nigeria

Government’s Side: Justifications for the Hike

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) outlines several key goals behind the increase:

1. Improved Quality & Security: To ensure passports meet international (ICAO) standards and include enhanced features like biometric chips. NairametricsThe Guardian NigeriaBusinessday NG
2. Rising Production Costs: Materials, printing, and operational expenses have risen significantly. NairametricsThe Guardian Nigeria
3. Expanded Access & Speed: Funds will support the opening of more passport offices and biometric centers, alleviating congestion and shortening wait times. NairametricsThe Guardian Nigeria
4. Local Content Push: The move aligns with the federal government’s “Renewed Hope” agenda of increasing domestic production of passport booklets. NairametricsThe Nation Newspaper

Public Reaction: Outrage, Skepticism, and Sarcasm

Not everyone is buying the reasons—especially not Nigerians on social media, who queued up with memes, criticism, and sharp commentary.

• Many called the hike “insensitive” and poorly timed given the economic struggles and inflation. Tribune OnlineThe Guardian Nigeria
• Users decried the 10-day notice period as rushed and thoughtless:

“The 10-day notice … is an example of the government’s lack of empathy.” Tribune Online

• Others mocked the policy, suggesting the government was milking every possible source of revenue:

“Nigeria isn’t livable… with a 70k minimum wage, a passport will now cost 50,000!” Punch Newspapers

• Corruption fears persist too: many fear that despite higher fees, illegal charges, and bribery at the passport offices won’t go away. The Guardian NigeriaPunch Newspapers

Is Anything Else Improving?

Thankfully, yes. The NIS hasn’t only talked the talk—they’ve begun to modernize the system:

• Passport application automation launched in late 2023, allowing Nigerians to complete much of the process online.
• By early 2025, a contactless renewal system was launched for Nigerians in Europe, adding convenience to the process.

These shifts bring hope—but implementation glitches, especially payment issues, continue to frustrate several applicants.

The Human Side of It All

Here’s what it boils down to for everyday Nigerians:

• For many, passports are essential—for work, studies, or family abroad. Doubling or tripling the cost places real pressure on dreams and plans.
• The government argues these fees will forge a safer, more efficient, and self-reliant system.
• But the public, worn down by economic strain, needs reassurance that higher fees really lead to better services—not more obstacles.

• 63
•  1
  
• 0
• 1
• 0
• 0