UK-Based Nigerians to Benefit from Passport Processing Drive

On Monday, the Nigerian Federal Government unveiled the schedule and locations for a special passport processing initiative aimed at its citizens residing in the United Kingdom. This operation, spearheaded by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), is slated to occur across four major UK cities: London, Manchester, Aberdeen, and Cardiff. This intervention had previously been communicated after the NIS headquarters in Abuja dispatched a dedicated Passport Intervention Team.

The NIS clarified that this initiative was launched in response to a directive from the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and after extensive discussions with the Nigerian High Commission in the UK, as well as various Nigerian community representatives. A public statement, issued by DCI Akinsola Akinlabi, the NIS Service Public Relations Officer, specified that the processing events in London and Manchester are scheduled from September 7 to 19, 2026.

For London, the venue for the exercise will be Layali Lounge, Trent Park, Bramley Road, London N14 4UW. In Manchester, operations will be conducted at Nigerian House, located at 23 Platt Lane, Manchester M14 5NE. Following these, the intervention team will proceed to Aberdeen and Cardiff, with dates set from September 21 to 26. The Hilton Convention Centre, 13 Smithfield Road, Aberdeen AB24 4NR, has been designated for the Aberdeen segment, while Sophia Gardens, Sophia Walk, Cardiff CF11 9XR, will host the Cardiff event.

The NIS strongly advised all eligible Nigerian citizens residing in these four cities and their environs to utilize this opportunity for new passport applications, renewals, or to finalize any outstanding applications. It was stressed that all applicants must complete their application and payment processes via the official NIS Passport Application portal prior to visiting their chosen location. Required documents for presentation include completed application forms, payment confirmation slips, appointment slips, and a self-addressed return envelope. For those seeking renewals, their current passports are also mandatory. A strict warning was issued by the Service: “Applicants who come with cash will not be attended to.”

Furthermore, the NIS appealed to all prospective applicants to collaborate with its personnel to guarantee an efficient and well-organized process. The Service also confirmed that its existing digital passport application platforms, including the Contactless Passport Application System, continue to function, with home delivery options still available. For any queries or support, individuals can contact [email protected] or use the WhatsApp-only number, +234 916 087 8000.

This initiative follows an earlier announcement by the NIS regarding the deployment of a special team to the UK to aid Nigerians with their passport needs, whether for new applications, renewals, or clearing pending requests. The Service emphasized that this intervention is a key component of its broader strategy to enhance passport service delivery for Nigerians living abroad. The most recent update, detailing the schedule, was dated August 31, 2026, and endorsed by Akinlabi, representing the Nigeria Immigration Service Headquarters, Abuja.