In Abuja on Tuesday, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, disclosed that the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) efficiently cleared a backlog of nearly 60,000 cases in a mere four working days. 

This announcement was delivered during a courtesy visit by Betta Edu, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.

“When we came on board, the passport crisis was an embarrassment. And, we said: it cannot continue!” a statement from the minister’s spokesman Alao Babatunde quoted his principal as saying.

“As of this morning, I can tell you that about 60,000 passport backlogs have been cleared, especially 59,906. On Wednesday, September 6, 2023, when I gave the 2-week ultimatum, we had over 200,000 backlogs. We have recorded progress, and I maintain my word that those backlogs must be cleared.”

Edu conveyed that her visit aimed to enhance cooperation with the ministry in tackling various issues, including human trafficking, veterans’ well-being, underemployment, and poverty. 

She emphasized the ministry’s pivotal role in addressing human trafficking concerns, highlighting its supervisory role over the NIS. 

The Interior Minister assured her of his wholehearted cooperation.

“His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed us to see the place of partnership as agents of his #RenewedHope Agenda, and we are here to deliver on this mandate,” he added.

“We assure you of our support. Your initiative is progressive and commendable, especially at this crucial time in the history of our country. There is a lot of work to be done, and we cannot work in silos as the President has directed.”