US-based Nigerian recounts ₦1m passport renewal ordeal
A United States-based Nigerian, Sage Vincent Ike, says he spent over ₦1 million renewing his Nigerian passport due to delays and repeated payments. He described a four-month struggle involving missed appointments, extra charges, and administrative hurdles. Despite ongoing reforms, Ike faced significant financial and emotional strain, missing out on pre-paid international trips. The Nigeria Immigration Service has responded with an apology and clarification on the process.
What we know
- Sage Vincent Ike applied for a passport renewal in March 2026, as his passport was set to expire in May.
- He faced a closed consulate on his initial appointment of March 19, due to the Eid-el-Fitr holiday, with no prior notification.
- After multiple visits and payments—including $280 in the US and ₦460,000 in Nigeria—he still experienced long delays.
- The passport was eventually produced on July 15, but an additional $150 was paid for third-party collection, which the Immigration Service later called illegal.
- Ike finally received his passport on July 22 and returned to the US on July 24, after incurring further expenses and emotional distress.
