In a recent media briefing held in Abuja, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, addressed the recent increase in international passport fees. He explained that the hike, which represents a 45 percent increase in costs, is directly linked to the fluctuating foreign exchange rates between the Naira and the US dollar. This announcement has raised several questions and concerns among Nigerians who rely on these essential travel documents, especially in a time when many are seeking opportunities abroad or are in need of passports for travel purposes.
During the briefing, Tunji-Ojo emphasized the importance of understanding the economic factors that have led to this decision. “The increase in passport fees is a matter of cost-benefit analysis, especially when you consider the exchange rate between the dollar and the naira. If the government were to subsidize anything, I don’t think it should be passports,” he stated.
Before the increase, the fee for a 32-page passport booklet with a five-year validity was set at N35,000. However, following the new review, the cost has now risen to N50,000 marking a significant adjustment in the fees, which can impact many families and individuals planning to renew or obtain their passports. For those requiring the 64-page passport booklet, which has a 10-year validity, the previous cost of N70,000 has now escalated to N100,000. Such a jump in prices can be daunting for many Nigerians, particularly considering the economic challenges many are already facing.
Tunji-Ojo also made it clear that this fee increase does not affect Nigerians living abroad.
The Nigerian Immigration Service had earlier announced this upward review of the passport fees in August 2024. The announcement created a wave of reactions from the public, as many took to social media to express their views. While some understood the reasoning behind the increase due to the economic climate, others expressed frustration and disappointment.
The rise in passport fees may lead to a decrease in the number of passport applications. People might hesitate to apply for or renew their passports if they feel the costs are too high. This could result in a backlog of applications and delays in processing, which could ultimately affect those who urgently need their passports for travel or work-related opportunities. It is crucial for the Nigerian government to consider the implications of such price hikes on the populace and the potential consequences of reduced passport applications.
Moreover, the transparency of the fee structure has also come under scrutiny. Many citizens are calling for more information regarding how these fees are determined and what factors are considered in the pricing.
As the country navigates these challenging times, it is vital for policymakers to consider the impact of such decisions on the everyday lives of Nigerians. Understanding the balance between economic necessity and public accessibility will be crucial as the government continues to address the needs of its citizens in a rapidly changing economic landscape. The voices of the people must be heard, and solutions that promote fairness and transparency should be prioritized moving forward.
