The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has cautioned Nigerians against using unauthorised platforms for passport payments, reaffirming that its application process does not involve any third-party intermediaries.
In a statement issued on Monday in Abuja, the Service Public Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi, described as false and misleading allegations linking a religious organisation to the Service’s payment system.
He reiterated that the passport application process remains secure, transparent, and fully approved by the government, and is accessible through the official NIS portal. According to him, the portal is the only authorised platform for all passport-related payments and processing for Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora.
Akinlabi warned that any external links or platforms claiming to facilitate passport payments on behalf of the NIS are fraudulent and should be avoided. He disclosed that the Service has commenced investigations into the origin of the claims, with preliminary findings pointing to individuals attempting to mislead the public or undermine the agency’s reputation.
He assured that those found responsible would face appropriate sanctions, stressing that the NIS operates strictly in compliance with government financial regulations and collaborates only with licensed and accredited payment service providers listed on its official platform.
The spokesperson further warned that any payments made outside the approved channels are done at the payer’s risk, noting that the Service will not be liable for any losses or inconveniences arising from such transactions.
The NIS urged Nigerians to remain vigilant, use only its official portal, and avoid unauthorised agents or third-party websites. It reaffirmed that it does not recognise or provide alternative payment options for passport services.
Akinlabi also assured the public of the Service’s commitment to safeguarding trust by strengthening its systems and monitoring mechanisms to prevent fraud and misuse.
For further inquiries or assistance, we advise the public to contact NIS via its verified communication channels, including its social media handles on X (Twitter), Instagram and Facebook (@nigimmigration).
Other contact centre numbers are 09121900655, 09121556359, 09121477092 available 24/7, and WhatsApp lines 0916087800 and 09117717772,”he said.
