The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has dismissed allegations about irregularities in its passport application and payment process,l.
The Service described the allegations as false, misleading, and a deliberate attempt to deceive Nigerians.
NIS position is contained in a statement issued yesterday, Monday by the Service Public Relations Officer, Deputy Comptroller of Immigration(DCI) Akinsola Akinlabi.
The NIS in its statement reaffirmed that its passport application system remains secure, transparent, and accessible only through its official portal.
“The Nigeria Immigration Service operates a secure, government-approved passport application system, which is accessible exclusively through our official portal. This remains the only authorised platform for all passport-related payments and processing activities,” Akinlabi stated.
NIS specifically denied claims suggesting that a religious organisation or any third party is involved in its payment process, stressing that no such partnership has ever existed.
“At no time has the Immigration Service partnered with or authorised any religious organisation, private entity, or individual to act as an intermediary or receiving account on its behalf,” the PRO further added.
According to the statement, recent claims alleging the appearance of a religious body in the payment chain are entirely baseless and do not reflect the structure or integrity of the NIS system.
The Service warned that any third-party links or platforms claiming to process passport payments are fraudulent.
The NIS said that it has commenced investigations into the origin of the allegations, adding that early findings point to the activities of individuals seeking to tarnish its image or mislead the public.
According to NIS “Preliminary investigations suggest the involvement of a mischief-maker seeking to tarnish the reputation of the Service or mislead the public for ulterior motives. Appropriate action will be taken against anyone found culpable.”
Reiterating its adherence to government financial regulations, the NIS emphasised that it works only with licensed and accredited payment service providers integrated into its official platform.
NIS warned that payments made outside its approved channels are at the payer’s risk.
The NIS urged Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to remain vigilant, avoid unauthorised agents, and conduct all passport-related transactions strictly through its official portal.
“The public is strongly advised to exercise caution and avoid any dealings with unauthorised agents, websites, or third-party platforms. The Service does not recognise or provide any third-party payment alternatives,” the NIS spokesman said.
NIS assured Nigerians of its continued commitment to strengthening its systems to prevent fraud and maintain public trust.
The NIS advised the public to use its verified communication channels, including its social media platforms and 24-hour contact centre lines.
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