NIS disowns unauthorised passport application platform
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has disowned an application and payment platform operating under the name of a religious organisation, warning Nigerians against using unauthorised channels. The Service advised prospective
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has disowned an application and payment platform operating under the name of a religious organisation, warning Nigerians against using unauthorised channels.
The Service advised prospective passport applicants to use only approved and recognised platforms designated by the NIS.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the Public Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi, dismissed claims circulating in the public regarding alternative passport application and payment processes.
He stated that the NIS operates a secure, transparent and government-approved system, accessible exclusively through its official passport application portal.
"This remains the only authorized platform for all passport-related payments and processing activities for Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora.
"At no time has the Service partnered with or authorized any religious organization, private entity, or individual to act as an intermediary or receiving account on its behalf," Akinlabi said.
According to him "Recent allegations suggesting that the name of a religious organization appears in the Service’s payment process are entirely false and do not reflect the structure, integrity, or processes of the NIS.
"A simple review of our authorized payment portal confirms the transparency and authenticity of our platform. Any third-party payment links or platforms purporting to process passport payments on behalf of the NIS are fraudulent and should be avoided at all costs.
"The Nigeria Immigration Service has taken note of this purported allegation and is currently investigating the matter to uncover the sources of this false claim.
"Preliminary investigations suggest the involvement of a mischief-maker seeking to tarnish the reputation of the Service or mislead the public for ulterior motives. Appropriate action will be taken against any individuals or groups found culpable", Akinlabi a Deputy Comptroller of Immigration said.
Akinlabi further said, "It is important to reiterate that the NIS strictly adheres to government financial regulations and works exclusively with licensed and accredited payment service providers that are clearly indicated within its authorized payment portal.
"Payments made outside the official channels provided by the NIS are made at the owner's sole risk, and the Service takes no responsibility for any loss or inconvenience arising from such transactions.
"The public is strongly urged to exercise caution, access our services only via the official portal, and avoid any dealings with unauthorized agents, websites, or third-party platforms. The Service does not recognize or provide any third-party payment alternatives for passport applications or related services.
"The Service remains steadfast in ensuring the trust of Nigerians by continuously strengthening its systems and monitoring processes to prevent misuse, fraud, or misrepresentation"
The Service urged Nigerians seeking clarification and assistance to go through its communication channels such as "X (Twitter): [@nigimmigration] (https://x.com/nigimmigration )
Instagram: [@nigimmigration] (https://instagram.com/nigimmigration )
Facebook: [@nigimmigration] (https://facebook.com/nigimmigration )
• Contact Center Numbers: 09121900655, 09121556359, 09121477092 (available 24/7)
• WhatsApp: 0916087800, 09117717772."
