Some users across various social media platforms have voiced their frustration over the newly increased fees for the Nigerian Standard Passport.
The Federal Government, via the Nigeria Immigration Service, announced on Wednesday that the adjustment in passport fees is necessary to maintain the quality and integrity of the passport system.
Effective September 1, 2024, the cost for a 32-page passport booklet with a five-year validity will rise to N50,000, up from the previous fee of N35,000. Meanwhile, a 64-page passport booklet with a ten-year validity will now be priced at N100,000, marking an increase of N30,000 from the earlier charge of N70,000.
Concerns among social media users include allegations of corruption among certain NIS officials demanding extra, unofficial fees, as well as general dissatisfaction with economic challenges, inflation, and what some perceive as government insensitivity to the people’s struggles.
A social media user highlighted discrepancies between online and offline fees, while others expressed skepticism about receiving efficient service without additional payments.
Critics have also noted the quick implementation timeline for the passport fee increase in comparison to the slow progress regarding discussions on the national minimum wage. Comments about the perceived disconnect between lawmakers and the realities faced by citizens dominated the conversation, with calls for a more empathetic approach from the government.
As citizens continue to grapple with the implications of these changes, many questions the rationale behind the price hike, particularly in a time of economic hardship. The Nigerian passport’s ranking at 92nd out of 199 on the Henley Passport Index further underscores the challenges citizens face regarding international travel.
