NIS extends UK passport exercise as demand surges among Nigerians

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has extended its special passport intervention exercise in the United Kingdom following a surge in demand among Nigerians seeking passport services.

The exercise, which is being conducted at centres in London and Manchester, has been extended from September 19 to October 3, 2026.

The NIS announced the extension in a statement signed by its Service Public Relations Officer, DCI Akinsola Akinlabi, on Friday.

The Service said the extension was approved in response to the high turnout recorded since the commencement of the exercise.

“In response to the high turnout and interest shown, the Nigeria Immigration Service under the directive of the Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has approved an extension of the exercise in London and Manchester from 19th September to 3rd October, 2026,” the statement said.

“The extension is intended to provide additional capacity to accommodate the increasing demand and ensure that as many eligible applicants are attended to.”

According to the NIS, 1,477 Nigerians were successfully processed and enrolled within the first four days of the exercise.

“Over half of those enrolled have already had their passports produced and dispatched to their respective addresses,” it said.

The Service said the exercise was progressing smoothly at the London and Manchester centres despite challenges recorded on the first day.

“The Nigeria Immigration Service wishes to update the general public, particularly Nigerians residing in the United Kingdom, that the Special Passport Intervention Exercise is progressing smoothly at the London and Manchester centers despite the initial challenges experienced on the first day of the commencement,” the statement said.

The NIS urged eligible applicants to book appointments before visiting the centres, saying the process was designed to ensure an orderly and transparent exercise.

“In line with NIS commitment to an orderly and transparent process, eligible applicants are required to book appointments for the special intervention exercise via the website of the High Commission of Nigeria, United Kingdom,” it said.

Applicants are required to present their completed application form and payment receipt, appointment slip, current passport where applicable, and a self-addressed return envelope at their scheduled appointments.

The Service also warned applicants against making cash payments or paying additional charges.

“The passport application and payment processes are fully automated and strictly cashless,” the NIS said.

“The applicable fees remain $162 for a five-year validity passport booklet and $242 for a ten-year validity booklet. No additional charges are required to participate in the intervention exercise.”

The NIS said further information on the extended dates, participating locations and appointment procedures would be released through the official channels of the Service and the High Commission of Nigeria in the UK.

The Service appreciated Nigerians in the UK for their patience and cooperation, reaffirming its commitment to improving passport services for Nigerians in the diaspora.

“The Nigeria Immigration Service appreciates the patience and cooperation of Nigerians in the United Kingdom and remains committed to delivering efficient, transparent and responsive passport services to Nigerians at home and in the diaspora,” it said.