For years, the Nigerian Immigration Service at the Nigerian High Commission in London was notorious for its inefficiency, long delays, and corruption. Nigerians living in the UK endured frustrating, hours-long waits for passport biometric appointments, often starting their day in long queues as early as 4 a.m.
It was a routine filled with hassles, including confrontations with unscrupulous touts who had turned the commission into their second home.
But today, things have changed dramatically. What was once a symbol of frustration has now become a source of hope for Nigerians living abroad.
During a recent unannounced visit to the High Commission’s passport section, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), witnessed firsthand the sweeping improvements that have taken place.
“I was deeply moved by the heartfelt stories shared by Nigerians,” she said. “This is truly a game changer for the diaspora community. What has happened here is unbelievable.”
Abike recounted speaking with several Nigerians who shared their positive experiences with the reformed passport services, led by Deputy Commander of Immigration (DCI) Bashir Aminu and supported by CG Immigration, Kemi Nandap, and Minister of Interior, Bunmi Tunji-Ojo.
“A Wonderful Experience”
One of the applicants, Luke, shared, “We thought it would take much longer, but we were done in less than two hours. Our return flight will have to wait because we still have 11 hours before departure.” His spouse, Janet, echoed the sentiment, praising the speed and efficiency of the process.
Another long-time London resident, Adebayo Oluwaleye, also commended the changes: “We expected a lengthy process for renewing our passports, but instead, it was seamless. Aminu Bashir and his team, including Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and CG Immigration, made this possible.”
Chineye Odika, another Nigerian applicant, was surprised by how quickly she completed her process: “I booked a 7:30 p.m. return ticket, thinking it would take up to eight hours. But here I am, finished in just two hours.”
For many Nigerians living abroad, these positive changes are more than just logistical—they restore confidence in their home country’s leadership and systems. The government has listened to the concerns of its citizens and taken concrete steps to make their lives easier.
A Win Against Corruption
One of the most significant reforms has been the elimination of touts and middlemen. In the past, Nigerians often had to pay bribes or rely on shady agents to expedite their passport applications. Now, the process is transparent and straightforward, with no room for exploitation.
This reform ensures that Nigerians no longer have to worry about unlawful charges or falling victim to fraudulent agents. The streamlined system now makes the process clear, accessible, and free from unnecessary interference.
Setting a New Standard for Service Delivery
Thanks to the leadership of Minister Tunji-Ojo, Bashir Aminu, and CG Immigration, Kemi Nandap, the Nigerian Immigration Service in London has become a model for efficient service delivery. What was once a symbol of inefficiency is now a shining example of excellence.
For Nigerians living abroad, this transformation represents more than just bureaucratic improvements—it’s the restoration of dignity and trust in a system that seemed irreparably broken. My hope is that these positive changes will spread to Nigerian embassies and immigration offices worldwide, ensuring that no Nigerian feels neglected or abandoned, no matter where they are.
Maxwell Adeyemi Adeleye, a Strategic Communications Expert, is the Convener of the League of Progressive Nigerians (LPN) in the United Kingdom.
