Groups Decry Delay In Getting Nigerian Identification Number

Nigerian community leaders in Europe, working with the International Advocacy for Human Rights and Anti-Corruption, have urged the federal government to address the persistent challenges in obtaining National Identification Numbers (NINs) and passports, which affect citizens abroad.

They said their appeal followed a report outlining the most pressing challenges faced by Nigerians overseas, which was released yesterday in Abuja after extensive consultations and review of information from diaspora communities.

In a statement jointly signed by Dr Okoro Akinyemi of IAHRAC, Mr Lewis Ehiwario of Concerned Nigerians Germany and Mr Dozie Ugochokwu of the Nigeria Business Forum Switzerland, the groups explained that the report emerged from a strategic meeting and cross-country survey conducted among Nigerians residing in Europe and North America to identify critical issues and document shared experiences across different national jurisdictions.

According to the leaders, Nigerians abroad often encounter severe delays and unnecessary travel burdens when attempting to obtain or verify their National Identification Number, with many reporting systemic obstacles that hinder timely processing and service delivery.

They advocated for the urgent digitalisation and complete modernisation of the NIN and passport systems, recommending that Nigerians be allowed to access both services simultaneously at embassies to reduce duplication, stress, and logistical complications experienced abroad.

They emphasised the need for improved embassy funding, upgraded equipment, additional trained personnel, and clearer immigration guidance. They strengthened digital infrastructure capable of supporting expanded responsibilities and efficiently managing increased service demands.

According to the groups, “A diaspora survey revealed significant systemic issues, including overreliance on private agents for NIN registration, resulting in inconsistent procedures, high fees and widespread dissatisfaction among Nigerians seeking accurate and reliable identification services abroad.”

They said inconsistent fees, unpredictable processing timelines and inadequate oversight suggested possible exploitation, reinforcing the urgency for a secure, fully digitalised NIN registration and verification platform accessible to Nigerians globally without unnecessary intermediaries.

The leaders recommended that embassies and consulates directly handle NIN and passport services, alongside establishing mobile registration units across major global cities to ensure broader access and reduce burdens on travelling applicants.