Civil Society Coalition Rallies Support For Proposed Hike In Passport Processing Fees

The Coalition of Civil Society Groups for National Development (CCSGND) has thrown its weight behind the proposed upward review of the Nigerian passport processing fee by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and the Federal Ministry of Interior, urging Nigerians to show understanding and support for the reform.

In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ochiaga Jude, the coalition acknowledged that the announcement of a fee adjustment may naturally raise concerns among citizens.

However, it stressed that the reform is not punitive but progressive, and is consistent with global realities where governments regularly review administrative charges to reflect inflation, technology upgrades, and demands for efficient service delivery.

The group cited examples of similar reforms in other sectors which, despite initial opposition, eventually produced long-term benefits for the country.

It noted that incremental electricity tariff adjustments had contributed to improved power supply, while petroleum product pricing reforms helped end perennial fuel scarcity.

“These examples show that while reforms may be difficult at first, their long-term benefits far outweigh the discomforts,” the statement read.

The coalition also warned Nigerians not to be swayed by “desperate politicians and perpetual critics” who, it said, were only interested in exploiting public concerns for political gains.

Instead, it urged citizens to focus on the larger goal of building stronger institutions, stressing that a functional passport system requires continuous investment in data systems, security features, and production facilities.

According to CCSGND, the proposed adjustment will help curb racketeering, reduce delays, and make passports more accessible to Nigerians across all regions. It called on citizens to see the reform as an act of patriotism and sacrifice necessary for sustaining vital national institutions.

The coalition assured the public that it would continue to monitor the implementation of the fee adjustment to ensure that the additional revenue is applied judiciously towards making passports more affordable, accessible, and timely.

“Nigeria must move forward, and we all have a role to play,” the statement concluded.