PASSPORT PRICE HIKE: Federal Government Slaps Nigerians with 43% Increase in International Passport Fees
In a move that has left many Nigerians reeling amid increasing cost of living, the federal government has announced a significant increase in the cost of obtaining the country’s international passport.
The new charges, which take effect from September 1, 2024, represent a whopping 43% hike in the fees for the vital travel document.
According to a statement signed by DCI Kenneth Udo, spokesperson of the Nigeria Immigration Service, the increase is aimed at maintaining the “quality and integrity” of the Nigerian Standard Passport.
However, many Nigerians are questioning the timing and justification for the move, which comes at a time when the country is grappling with unprecedented economic hardship and inflation.
The new fees are as follows: a 32-page Passport booklet with 5-year validity will now cost N50,000, up from N35,000, while a 64-page Passport booklet with 10-year validity will now cost N100,000, up from N70,000.
The Nigeria Immigration Service has apologized for any inconvenience the increase may cause, but many Nigerians are expressing outrage and disappointment at the move.
The increase is expected to affect thousands of Nigerians who require the international passport for travel, work, and study abroad.
Critics are questioning the government’s commitment to transparency and quality service delivery, as the increase is seen as another burden on already struggling citizens.
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