Immigration Decries Passport Payment Fraud Claims, Warns Public Against Fake Platforms

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has strongly dismissed circulating allegations about irregularities in its passport application and payment process, describing them as false, misleading, and a deliberate attempt to deceive Nigerians.

In a statement issued on Monday by the Service Public Relations Officer, DCI Akinsola Akinlabi, the NIS reaffirmed that its passport application system remains secure, transparent, and accessible only through its official portal.

“The Nigeria Immigration Service operates a secure, government-approved passport application system, which is accessible exclusively through our official portal. This remains the only authorised platform for all passport-related payments and processing activities,” Akinlabi stated.

The Service specifically denied claims suggesting that a religious organisation or any third party is involved in its payment process, stressing that no such partnership has ever existed.

“At no time has the Immigration Service partnered with or authorised any religious organisation, private entity, or individual to act as an intermediary or receiving account on its behalf,” the PRO added.

According to the statement, recent claims alleging the appearance of a religious body in the payment chain are entirely baseless and do not reflect the structure or integrity of the NIS system. The Service warned that any third-party links or platforms claiming to process passport payments are fraudulent.

The NIS further disclosed that it has commenced investigations into the origin of the allegations, noting that early findings point to the activities of individuals seeking to tarnish its image or mislead the public.

“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 anyone found culpable,” the statement warned.

Reiterating its adherence to government financial regulations, the Service emphasised that it works only with licensed and accredited payment service providers integrated into its official platform. It warned that payments made outside its approved channels are at the payer’s risk.

The NIS urged Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to remain vigilant, avoid unauthorised agents, and conduct all passport-related transactions strictly through its official portal.
“The public is strongly advised to exercise caution and avoid any dealings with unauthorised agents, websites, or third-party platforms. The Service does not recognise or provide any third-party payment alternatives,” the PRO cautioned.

The Service also assured Nigerians of its continued commitment to strengthening its systems to prevent fraud and maintain public trust.
For inquiries or assistance, the NIS advised the public to use its verified communication channels, including its social media platforms and 24-hour contact centre lines.