By Peter Omopo
ABUJA – A coalition of civil society groups has thrown its weight behind the recent increase in passport processing fees by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), urging Nigerians to view the reform as a step towards modernising the country’s passport system.
The Coalition of Civil Society Groups for National Development (CCSGND), in a statement signed by its publicity secretary, Comrade Ochiaga Judge, described the new fee structure as “progressive, not punitive,” and appealed for patience and understanding from citizens.
Last week, the NIS announced a review of passport charges, raising the cost of a 32-page passport with five-year validity to ₦100,000 and a 64-page passport with 10-year validity to ₦200,000. The announcement sparked mixed reactions, coming just a year after the last upward adjustment.
Defending the increase, the coalition argued that periodic reviews of administrative charges are common worldwide, necessary to reflect inflation, fund technological upgrades, and ensure efficient service delivery.
“Across the world, governments constantly adjust administrative charges for services to reflect inflationary trends, technological upgrades, and the demand for more efficient service delivery. Nigeria cannot afford to be an exception if our passport system is to remain credible, accessible, and secure,” the statement read.
The CCSGND likened the adjustment to past reforms in electricity tariffs and fuel pricing, which it said brought long-term benefits despite initial public outcry. It also warned against what it called “desperate politicians and perpetual critics” exploiting public discontent for political gains.
“True patriotism is not just about enjoying the fruits of governance but also about making sacrifices for the sustainability of our national institutions,” the coalition added.
The group pledged to monitor the implementation of the new fees and press for transparency to ensure that additional revenues are used to make passports more accessible, affordable, and timely for Nigerians.
