The Federal Government has officially launched a newly established Passport Front Office aimed at improving passport processing for senior public officials and designated individuals.

Opening the office in Abuja on Tuesday, Minister of Interior Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo said the specialised facility addresses the ongoing challenges faced by high-ranking government officials in accessing passports, which often forces them to abandon their duties and endure long waits at standard offices.

Dr. Tunji-Ojo praised the Nigerian Immigration Service for its professionalism and highlighted the collaboration with Iris Smart Technologies, which provided advanced digital infrastructure for the facility.

He said, “This new office will significantly enhance access, reduce waiting times, and elevate service standards for passport delivery.”

The minister, in a statement by the Director of Press and Public Relations of the ministry, noted that the initiative is part of a broader reform effort by the Ministry in 2023, emphasising the lack of a dedicated passport facility for public officials before this launch.

He said the specialised office “marks a turning point as we begin to bridge that gap and set a new course for service delivery in our nation.”

The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, highlighted the importance of the office for efficient passport processing of key public officials. (The Guardian)