The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has publicly refuted allegations circulating online that specific regions in the country are disqualified from obtaining passports. In their statement, which follows reports that have caused concern among citizens, the Service labeled the assertions as 'entirely false' and a 'gross misrepresentation' of the situation regarding ongoing reforms aimed at improving passport administration in Nigeria. Public Relations Officer DCI Akinsola Akinlabi emphasized that these disturbances in passport processing are part of a phased modernization effort rather than a form of regional discrimination.

The NIS clarified that this modernization began in 2024 and seeks to transition passport offices towards a centralized production framework, aiming to enhance the overall efficiency and integrity of the process. This modernization initiative reflects the government's commitment to improving service delivery as it responds to the increasing demands for passport issuance, which have faced significant challenges in the past. By addressing the infrastructure and processes involved in passport administration, the government hopes to create a more equitable system across all regions of Nigeria.

By dismissing the allegations and providing clarity on the subject, the NIS aims to reassure citizens that the reform is intended to benefit all Nigerians, irrespective of their location. The awareness of misinformation is critical, especially amid significant changes in public service delivery systems, and the NIS's commitment to transparency is essential in maintaining public trust during this transitional phase. This arises against the backdrop of increasing scrutiny on governmental processes and aims to mitigate any potential confusion among the populace regarding the passport issuance process.