Nigeria’s biometric passport app, launching in the UK, Italy, and the US on November 15, will utilize contactless biometric technology to improve passport renewal for citizens abroad. This follows its successful introduction in Canada. The app employs remote face and fingerprint capture, aiming to streamline services and enhance data security cooperation.
Nigeria’s Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, recently engaged with officials from the UK regarding the rollout of a new biometric passport application system aimed at Nigerians living abroad. Set to launch in the UK, Italy, and the United States on November 15, the NIS Contactless Biometrics App facilitates streamlined renewal of passports through remote capture of facial and fingerprint data. This initiative follows a successful launch in Canada on November 1, enhancing the service delivery for citizens facing challenges in passport processing globally. The collaboration involves local firms, Iris Smart Technologies and Newworks, which are tasked with developing the biometric application in conjunction with the NIS. During discussions with the UK Home Secretary, Rt Hon Yvette Cooper, Tunji-Ojo emphasized the importance of strengthening international data security for effective public service delivery. His oversight visit to the Nigeria High Commission illustrates a commitment to improving services for Nigerians beyond national borders. The biometric application aims to address longstanding difficulties experienced by Nigerians in renewing passports, ensuring a more efficient and secure process. Following the rollouts in these countries, global access to the service will commence on December 1, further underscoring Nigeria’s dedication to enhancing its biometric capabilities internationally.
The Nigerian government has prioritized the modernization of its passport application system, responding to complaints from citizens struggling with lengthy renewal processes. Biometric technologies have become a cornerstone in securing and improving governmental services. The introduction of contactless biometric capture allows applicants to submit their facial and fingerprint data remotely, thereby mitigating the need to visit physical offices and reducing waiting times. This initiative is part of a broader push to internationalize Nigerian services and ensure a seamless experience for citizens residing abroad.
In summary, Nigeria’s launch of the NIS Contactless Biometrics App marks a significant advancement in the passport renewal process for Nigerians abroad, particularly in the UK, Italy, and the United States. By leveraging biometric technology, the Nigerian government aims to enhance service efficiency and security, providing smoother processes for citizens facing challenges with passport renewals. The efforts reflect an ongoing commitment to modernize public services and facilitate better connectivity between the Nigerian government and its diaspora.
Original Source: www.biometricupdate.com
