Nigerians in UK get relief as passport intervention extends to October 3

Nigerians in the United Kingdom (UK) who have been facing delays in obtaining or renewing their passports have been given more time to access the Nigeria Immigration Service’s (NIS) special intervention, with the exercise extended to October 3.

This follows strong demand that saw 1,477 applicants processed in its first four days, with more than half of the passports already produced and dispatched to applicants’ addresses.

The extension, which covers intervention centres in London and Manchester, is expected to provide additional capacity as demand for Nigerian passports continues to rise among Nigerians in the UK.

The extension, approved under the directive of Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, minister of Interior, will run from September 19 to October 3, 2026.

“In response to the high turnout and interest shown, the Nigeria Immigration Service under the directive of the Honourable minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has approved an extension of the exercise in London and Manchester from 19th September to 3rd October, 2026,” the NIS said in a statement signed by DCI Akinṣola Akinlabi, its Service public relations officer.

The development underscores the pressure on Nigerian passport services in the diaspora, with the immigration authorities deploying the temporary intervention exercise to accommodate applicants who may otherwise face longer waiting periods.

The NIS said the exercise was progressing smoothly in both centres despite challenges encountered on its first day.

Eligible applicants are required to book appointments through the website of the High Commission of Nigeria in the UK before attending the intervention exercise.

Applicants must present their completed application form and payment receipt, appointment slip, current passport where applicable, and a self-addressed return envelope.

The Service reiterated that passport applications and payments are fully automated and cashless. The applicable fees remain $162 for a five-year passport booklet and $242 for a 10-year booklet, with no additional charges required to participate in the intervention exercise.

The Service said the extension was intended to ensure that more eligible applicants could access passport services, while reaffirming its commitment to providing efficient and responsive services to Nigerians in the diaspora.

Further information on the extended dates, participating locations and appointment procedures will be communicated through the official channels of the NIS and the Nigerian High Commission in the UK. (BusinessDay)