The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has justified the recent increase in international passport fees, citing the need for enhanced quality, faster processing, and better accessibility.
The NIS Comptroller in Adamawa, Mr Ibrahim Mohammed, announced this during a sensitization exercise in Yola.
Effective September 1, the cost for a 32-page passport booklet with five years of validity will rise from ₦35,000 to ₦50,000, while the 64-page booklet with ten years of validity will increase from ₦70,000 to ₦100,000.
Mohammed clarified that this fee hike applies only to applicants within Nigeria, as those abroad will not be affected.
He emphasised that the new passports are more durable and secure, featuring fingerprints to prevent forgery.
Mohammed urged applicants to apply online or visit NIS offices directly, warning against the use of agents to avoid scams.
He also requested religious leaders to inform their congregations about the changes, noting that applications submitted before the deadline would still be charged at the old rate.