News

Just in: FG Begins Contactless Passport Renewal For Nigerians

Published

3 weeks ago

November 1, 2024

“Individuals will be able to apply to renew their international passports from the comfort of their homes without having to visit having to visit any NIS office.”

FG is set to commence a contactless passport renewal for Nigerians from November 1st.

NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) is set to roll out a phased contactless passport renewal system, launching first in Canada on November 1, 2024.

This online renewal process aims to streamline passport services for Nigerians, reducing the need for physical visits to NIS offices.

Following Canada’s launch, the system will expand to the United Kingdom, United States, and Italy on November 15, with full global access, including Nigeria, by December 1.

This announcement was shared by the NIS via a video on their X account on October 30, 2024, explaining how the new system works.

In the video, a spokesperson stated, “In its continued effort to serve the Nigerian public more efficiently and create a functional system that meets global standards, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has launched a new contactless and issuance process starting from November 1st, 2024.

“Individuals will be able to apply to renew their international passports from the comfort of their homes without having to visit having to visit any NIS office.”

To use this service, Nigerians need to download the NIS mobile app from Google Play, the App Store, or Windows Store, or visit the online portal at www.passport.immigration.gov.ng.

Step-by-Step Guide for Contactless Passport Renewal

1. Download the App or Access the Portal: From November 1, Nigerians in Canada can download the NIS mobile app or visit the official portal.

2. Register a Profile: Use a valid email address to create a profile and begin the application.

3. Check Eligibility: Complete a quick eligibility check for passport renewal.

4. Enter Identity Information: Input your National Identification Number (NIN) and current passport number.

5. Submit Personal Details: Fill in your bio-data and upload required documents, such as your NIN slip, birth certificate, and local government certificate.

6. Biometric Capture: Use your device to capture fingerprint biometrics.

7. Review and Confirm: Double-check all entered information for accuracy.

8. Make Payment: Complete the online payment to proceed.

9. Submit Application: Submit the application for processing.

The renewed passport will be delivered to the applicant’s specified address. Starting with Canadians on November 1, this system promises a streamlined and accessible approach for Nigerians worldwide.

News

FG Commends Ghana for Rebuilding Nigerian High Commission Property

Published

12 minutes ago

November 21, 2024

Gloria Ikibah

By Gloria Ikibah

The Federal Government of Nigeria has commended the Republic of Ghana for successfully rebuilding and formally handing over property belonging to the Nigerian High Commission in Accra.

The handover ceremony, which took place on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, marked a significant milestone in the relationship between the two West African nations.

In a statement signed by the Acting Spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the Ministry noted that the gesture reflects “the spirit of cooperation and mutual respect that defines the relationship between the Republic of Nigeria and Ghana.”

Naijablitznews.com reports that in 2020, a block of four-bedroom flats, was demolished in a controversial incident that sparked strong condemnation from the Nigerian government.

Following extensive diplomatic engagements, Ghana pledged to reconstruct the building, reaffirming its commitment to the long-standing bilateral ties between the countries.

Speaking during the handover ceremony in Accra, Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, described the project as a testament to Ghana’s dedication to fostering mutual respect and cooperation with Nigeria.

“We deeply value our relationship with Nigeria, and this effort demonstrates our commitment to resolving disputes amicably and strengthening our ties,” she said.

The keys to the reconstructed building were received on behalf of the Nigerian government by Ambassador Chimezie Ogu, Director of the Foreign Service Academy, Lagos, who represented Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.

“This occasion is a moment of great significance and demonstrates the power of diplomacy.

“The Nigerian government appreciates the efforts of the Ghanaian authorities in addressing this matter with integrity and ensuring the restoration of this important property. It is a gesture that will not be forgotten,” Ambassador Ogu remarked

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja lauded the Ghanaian government for its efforts, describing the reconstruction and handover as a “commendable development” and a “symbol of Ghana’s commitment to strengthening ties between both nations.”

The demolition of the property in 2020 had initially strained relations between the two countries, with Nigerian authorities expressing outrage over the incident. However, through sustained dialogue and diplomacy, both nations were able to reach a resolution, demonstrating the strength of their historical and strategic partnership.

Observers have hailed the handover as a positive step toward deepening regional collaboration and ensuring peaceful resolution of disputes. Analysts also see the move as a model for other nations in handling similar diplomatic challenges.

The reconstructed building, located in a prime area of Accra, will once again serve as part of the Nigerian High Commission’s facilities, supporting the mission’s operations and housing some of its personnel.

As the ceremony concluded, officials from both nations expressed optimism about future collaborations. “This is a victory for diplomacy and mutual understanding,” Ambassador Ogu stated, adding that the two nations must continue to work together for the prosperity of the region.

The symbolic gesture is expected to strengthen Nigeria-Ghana relations, which have been built on shared cultural, economic, and political values over decades. Both governments reiterated their commitment to fostering peace, security, and development in the West African sub-region.

News

I am done – Chidimma Adetshina quits pageantry

Published

1 hour ago

November 21, 2024

Kayode Sanni-Arewa

Miss Universe runner-up, Chidimma Adetshina, has announced her decision to quit pageantry.

Speaking during a recent interview with Silverbird TV, Adetshina said pageantry has been a traumatic experience for her.

She said she’s quitting for personal reasons and relocating to Nigeria from her estranged country, South Africa.

“Finishing in the top 2 [at the Miss Universe competition] is still a shocker for me… Honestly, I am done. Pageantry was a real traumatic experience for me,” she said.

“People still don’t understand how I felt. There were times when I almost quit during the Miss Universe contest. I’m really done with pageantry. I want to focus on myself and establish who I am. And forward my education as well.”

After finishing as 1st runner-up at the Miss Universe competition, Adetshina was named Miss Universe Africa and Oceania.

She won Miss Nigeria after withdrawing from the Miss South Africa contest after she attracted scrutiny over her nationality.