UK high commission introduces sweeping changes to make passport applications easier

NIGERIA'S high commissioner to the UK Ambassador Sarafa Ishola has announced several radical changes that will not only speed up the issuance of passports but also make the process more user-friendly.

Announcing the measures on Saturday May 27 at the annual general meeting of the Central Association of Nigerians in the UK (Canuk), Ambassador acknowledged that there are problems with the current regime. He added that as a result, the building is being refurbished to make it more comfortable.

In addition, vending machines will be installed in the waiting areas and the canteen is going to be made operational again. More importantly, the website through which applications are made is being revamped to make the process easier and more user-friendly.

Ambassador Ishola said: "When I can into office in May 2021, I met a backlog of over 60,000 passports as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. We managed to clear that backlog and since I have been in office, we have managed to have handled over 120,000 passport applications at the high commission."

Outlining the new measures being introduced, Ambassador Ishola said Nigerians will now enjoy an array of new measures. These include:

[1] There is going to be a dedicated customer service help desk for applicants who have issues with their passport applications to direct their enquiries
[2] People whose passports do not arrive at the given date can go with their collection slip to the high commission after 10 am
[3] The website is being revamped.
[4] A new vending machine will be installed at the high commission.
[5] The canteen will become operational once again
[6] In June, the website will become more user-friendly.
 

Olajumoke Ariyo, Canuk's first vice chair and chairperson of its passport liaision commitete, added: "Please remember you can still send all your enquiries to Canuk's passport liaison committee at canukplc@gmail.com."