NIS processes 2,296 Nigerians in UK passport intervention exercise

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) processed 2,296 Nigerians during the first six days of its special passport intervention program in the UK.

The operation was launched to address delays affecting passport applications among Nigerians living in the UK and reduce the backlog of pending applications.

The Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Deputy Controller of Immigration Akinsola Akinlabi, disclosed the figures in a statement released in Abuja on Monday.

Manchester has the highest number of candidates

According to the immigration authority, the intervention began on 7 September 2026, with processing centers set up in London and Manchester.

Akinlabi said 587 candidates were successfully registered in central London, while Manchester registered 1,709 candidates in the same period.

Manchester center accounted for around 74% of all requests reviewed during the six-day exercise.

The exercise targets passport delays among Nigerians abroad

The special intervention was introduced following concerns over the prolonged passport processing times experienced by Nigerians in the diaspora.

THE Nigeria Immigration Service said the program was designed to improve access to passport services and provide relief to applicants who have experienced delays.

Only candidates with confirmed appointments were accepted into the intervention centers.

The immigration chief monitors the exercise

The Comptroller General of Immigration, Ms Kemi Nandap, visited centers in London and Manchester to assess the programme’s progress.

The NIS spokesperson said the visit was part of efforts to strengthen supervision, maintain service standards and ensure claimants receive efficient support.

He added that Nandap also engaged with members of the Nigerian community during the inspection.

Passport production and delivery in progress

Akinlabi said passport production and dispatch has begun for candidates who have completed the enrollment process.

He explained that the process was proceeding smoothly, with immigration officials dealing with scheduled applicants at both locations.

“The exercise is continuing in central London and Manchester. Claimants with confirmed speaking appointments will be supported,” he said.

NIS calls for cooperation

The Immigration Service has thanked Nigerians in the UK for their patience and co-operation during the exercise.

The agency urged applicants to continue following appointment procedures and work with officials to ensure faster processing.