Frustration as technical failure disrupts Nigerian passport exercise in UK

Nigerian passport applicants in the UK have expressed frustration over technical glitches that disrupted passport processing at a Manchester intervention centre. Videos emerged showing Nigerians stranded and frustrated during biometric capture in the early hours of the morning. Dr Bims Oluwasona, General Secretary of Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation UK, stated that there was a surge in passport applications and called for a complete overhaul of passport processing operations.

He emphasized the need for better infrastructure, adequate staff, and transitioning to a fully automated end-to-end passport application process. Oluwasona also advocated for establishing a dedicated customer resolution centre to improve efficiency and provide timely support. Nigerians in the UK urged the Nigerian government to collaborate with diaspora communities to prevent further challenges and ensure a seamless experience for Nigerians at home and abroad.

The founder of Nigerians in the United Kingdom on X, Benjamin Kuti, highlighted issues of ill-treatment, delays, disorganization, poor communication, and additional charges at various passport intervention centres. He stressed the importance of clear information for applicants, including fees, procedures, and expected service. Kuti also demanded transparency concerning fees and urged the agencies to improve crowd management, appointment systems, and provide appropriate assistance to elderly, disabled, and vulnerable community members.