By: HYACINTH NWAFOR
In recent months, Nigeria’s Immigration Service has garnered positive attention, particularly at its FESTAC Passport Office in Lagos. Since February 2024, when Deputy Comptroller Bashir Bala took charge, the office has undergone significant reforms, much to the satisfaction of applicants. The days of long delays and touting seem to be over, as the agency has streamlined operations to ensure efficient passport issuance, even in the face of growing demand.
One notable change is the office’s extended operational hours. Since Comptroller Bala assumed leadership, the FESTAC office has been operating on Saturdays. This move was specifically implemented to tackle the backlog of applications that had plagued the office for months. By working weekends, the office has made substantial progress in clearing pending applications, bringing relief to thousands of Nigerians eager to secure their passports.
Perhaps one of the most remarkable improvements has been the elimination of touting. In the past, the presence of middlemen, who offered to “fast-track” passport processing for a fee, was a common frustration for applicants. However, under the new leadership, these practices have been stamped out. The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has enforced strict measures to ensure that applicants no longer fall prey to such unscrupulous activities.
Additionally, the Federal Government has made it easier for applicants to navigate the passport application process by streamlining online registration and payment. Gone are the days when applicants had to worry about officers demanding cash payments. Today, all payments are made directly through the online platform, ensuring transparency and accountability. No officer is allowed to collect cash from applicants, a major step in combating corruption within the system.
The improved processes have significantly reduced waiting times. In the past, applicants could wait for months before receiving their passports, but now, the process has been dramatically shortened. “Within two weeks, I was able to get my international passport,” said one applicant. “It’s such a relief compared to how long it used to take.”
Deputy Comptroller Bala’s leadership has clearly lifted the face of the FESTAC passport office, and all procedures are now diligently followed. Officers at the FESTAC office have become more cooperative and professional, treating applicants with courtesy and respect. This shift in attitude has not gone unnoticed, with many applicants expressing satisfaction with the service they received.
Even though the Federal Government recently increased the cost of obtaining passports, many applicants remain pleased with the overall improvements in service delivery. The efficiency, professionalism, and transparency at the FESTAC office have ensured that most people leave the office with a positive experience, despite the higher fees.
Under DC Bashir Bala’s leadership, the Nigeria Immigration Service’s FESTAC Passport Office has set a new standard for public service delivery in the country, and applicants are hopeful that these positive changes will continue to be implemented nationwide.
