Diasporan groups want FG to simplify access to NIN etc.

The team of Umuaka Times international correspondents last week got hint of the frustrations Nigerians living outside the country go through in their individual attempts to secure the National Identification Numbers (NIN) and Nigerian passports abroad. Shortly before press time last week, Umuaka Times came across a joint communique issued by two Diasporan groups like International Advocacy for Human Rights and Anti-Corruption, Concerned Nigerians in Germany, and Nigeria Business Forum, Switzerland, highlighting the struggles.

A report released in Abuja recently, based on consultations with Diasporan communities in Europe and North America, shows that Nigerians face prolonged delays, extra travel, and systemic obstacles getting NINs. The groups want the following changes in their advocacy projects: Digitization and modernization of NIN and passport systems, improved funding for foreign missions with upgraded equipment, staff, and clear immigration guidelines. Embassies to handle NIN and passport services simultaneously and mobile registration units in major global cities.

The groups criticized the current NIN model relying on private agents, citing inconsistent procedures, high fees, and dissatisfaction. They push for a secure, digital NIN system accessible without intermediaries. What’s the next step for the government?

Some Nigerians who spoke with Umuaka Times correspondents confirmed that the challenges they go through to obtain valid documents include long queues and wait times: “I waited 5 hours at the Nigerian Embassy in London just to submit documents. No guarantee of when I’ll get my NIN.” A frustrated fellow told Umuaka Times. Another agent confirmed that they also face the role of private agents with high fees: “In Germany, agents charge €100+ for ‘expedited’ NIN. No transparency, no guarantee.”

Others include: Inconsistent processes: “In US, embassy says do X, agent says do Y. Conflicting info everywhere. Travel burdens: “Had to travel 200km to embassy in Paris. No mobile units. Huge stress.” Delays and no updates: “Applied 3 months ago in Canada. No NIN, no response. Embassy unhelpful.”

Digital hiccups: “Tried online portal in Australia. Kept crashing. Had to go to embassy physically.”

It is still highly unclear if the Federal Government will do something about this development or not.