The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has strongly refuted circulating claims alleging irregularities in its passport application and payment process, insisting that its system remains secure, transparent, and accessible only through its official online portal.
In a public notice issued on Monday, the Service dismissed reports suggesting that a religious organisation is involved in its payment process, describing such claims as false and misleading. The agency stressed that all passport-related applications and payments must be conducted exclusively via its authorised platform, warning Nigerians to avoid any third-party channels.
“The NIS operates a secure, transparent, and government-approved passport application system, which is accessible exclusively through its official portal,” the statement read. “This remains the only authorized platform for all passport-related payments and processing activities for Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora.”
The Service categorically denied any partnership with religious bodies, private entities, or individuals acting as intermediaries, noting that any such claims do not reflect its operational structure. “Recent allegations suggesting that the name of a religious organization appears in the Service’s payment process are entirely false and do not reflect the structure, integrity, or processes of the NIS,” the agency stated.
Amid growing concerns over online fraud and impersonation, the NIS warned that any third-party payment links or platforms claiming to process passport applications on its behalf are fraudulent. It urged members of the public to exercise caution and rely solely on its official portal for all transactions.
The Service also confirmed that it has launched an investigation into the origin of the false claims, indicating that preliminary findings point to deliberate attempts to mislead the public. “The Nigeria Immigration Service has taken note of this purported allegation and is currently investigating the matter to uncover the sources of this false claim,” the statement added, noting that those found responsible would face appropriate sanctions.
Reaffirming its commitment to regulatory compliance, the agency stated that it works only with licensed and accredited payment service providers clearly listed on its official platform. It cautioned that payments made outside approved channels are done at the user’s risk, with no liability on the part of the Service for any resulting loss.
The NIS further urged Nigerians to avoid dealings with unauthorised agents or websites, reiterating that it does not recognise any alternative payment arrangements. It assured the public that efforts are ongoing to strengthen its systems and safeguard users against fraud and misrepresentation.
