NIS to Launch Contactless Passport Solution in Europe on February 7

By: Michael Mike

Comptroller General, Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), Mrs. Kemi Nandap has announced that NIS is set to launch the contactless passport application solution in Europe, with UK serving as the coordinating centre on February 7.

The Comptroller General made the announcement on Tuesday when she paid a courtesy call on Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa at NiDCOM headquarters in Abuja.

She said: “This initiative set for launch on 7th of February 2025 will enable Nigerians in the Diaspora to apply for and renew their passports online from the comfort of their homes.”

Nandap reiterated that the innovative solution is designed to simplify the passport application process for Diaspora, save time, and reduce costs associated with travelling to apply for passport.

She, however, said that the initiative is not for fresh applicants or minors but for those renewing their passports.

She said Nigerians living abroad can start the process of renewing their passports a year to its expiration.

Nandap commended NIDCOM for being a dependable partner and ally in advocacy in giving awareness to its programmes and policies, especially as it affects Nigerians living abroad.

The Comptroller General said that President Bola Tinubu has given them the marching order to make life easier for Nigerians in the diaspora, saying the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has in the meantime approved a passport processing facility for New York, to address the backlog and bring experience there.

She added that passport front offices will soon be opened in other parts of the US and other countries.

Responding to the news, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, commended the laudable initiative, which aligns with the Commission’s mandate to support and facilitate diaspora engagement.

“The launch of the contactless passport application solution in Europe is a significant step towards efficient, secure, and convenient travel document management for Nigerians in the diaspora. NiDCOM will continue to support, monitor and collaborate with the NIS to ensure the success of this initiative” she added.

She commended the Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and the Comptroller General for the innovations introduced, noting that the contactless application has since taken off in Canada with commendations from Nigerians in Canada.

NIS to Launch Contactless Passport Solution in Europe on February 7

BREAKING – Gov Mutfwang’ Announces demise of LT Gen J T Useni, commiserates with Family

By: Our Reporter

The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, deeply regrets to announce to the citizens of Plateau State and all patriotic Nigerians, the passing of the former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Lt. General Jeremiah Timbut Useni.

The distinguished elder statesman passed away on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at the age of 82, following a protracted illness.

In a statement in Jos signed by , Governor Mutfwang’s Director of Press and Public affairs ,the Governor described the passing of General Useni as a tremendous loss not only to his immediate family but also to the Nigerian Armed Forces, Plateau State, and the entire nation.

The Governor highlighted General Useni’s exemplary leadership and steadfast commitment to service, which left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s security and political landscape. He noted that General Useni’s tireless efforts to promote peace and security, especially in Northern Nigeria and Plateau State, will forever be remembered.

Governor Mutfwang recounted the illustrious career of the late General, who served Nigeria with distinction in various capacities, including as Minister of Transport, Quarter-Master General of the Nigerian Army, and Minister of the FCT.

After retiring from the military, General Useni transitioned into politics, where he continued his service to the nation. He served as Deputy Chairman of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and was elected Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District in 2015 under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

The Governor commended General Useni’s life of selfless service, noting his profound contributions to the military, politics, and his community. He emphasized that the General’s legacy of compassion, kindness, generosity, and dedication to the well-being of others will endure in the lives of those he impacted.

“On behalf of my family, the government, and the peace-loving people of Plateau State, I extend my deepest sympathies to the President, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the immediate family, and all those mourning the loss of this distinguished elder statesman,” Governor Mutfwang said.

He prayed that God grants the family, Plateau State, and the nation the strength and fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss. He also asked for God’s divine presence to comfort and provide solace in the days ahead.

BREAKING – Gov Mutfwang’ Announces demise of LT Gen J T Useni, commiserates with Family

NAF AIRSTRIKES NEUTRALIZE SCORES OF BANDITS HIBERNATING AT ALAWA FOREST IN SHIRORO LGA OF NIGER STATE

By: Olusola F Akinboyewa

The Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA (AC OPFY) has recorded another significant achievement in its counter-terrorism campaign, neutralising scores of bandits and dismantling their logistics base at Alawa Forest in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State. This operation, conducted on 21 January 2025, was based on credible intelligence and follow-up confirmatory aerial surveillance efforts which indicated an influx of armed terrorists into the forest. These criminals were linked to widespread violence, including two Improvised Explosive Device (IED) attacks on 19 December 2024 in Bassa, Shiroro LGA, which claimed several innocent lives.

In response, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) launched a three-day sustained air operation, code-named KONAN DAJI, to degrade the terrorists’ capabilities and render the forest unhabitable for them. To this end, AC OPFY dispatched a formation of fighter aircraft to execute air interdiction missions in the area. Upon arrival, the jets swiftly engaged the identified targets with precision strikes, neutralising numerous armed fighters and destroying their logistics base, as confirmed by multiple secondary explosions.

The NAF, in close coordination with ground forces, remains resolute in its commitment to maintaining operational dominance across the region. Sustained efforts are underway to eliminate all criminal elements from Alawa Forest and surrounding areas, ensuring lasting peace and security for communities in Niger State and beyond.

NAF AIRSTRIKES NEUTRALIZE SCORES OF BANDITS HIBERNATING AT ALAWA FOREST IN SHIRORO LGA OF NIGER STATE