A civic group, Network for the Actualization of Social Growth and Viable Development, NEFGAD, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to look into the hardship faced by personnel of Nigerian foreign missions and Nigeria Immigration Service, NIS, attachés working in different parts of the world.
The appeal was contained in a letter dated November 4, 2025, and forwarded to the President. It was endorsed by the group’s acting Head of Office, Barrister Unekwu Blessing Ojo.
NEFGAD stated that the current situation in the missions, if ignored, could damage Nigeria’s global standing and disrupt services offered to citizens and foreigners.
‘’For over two years the Nigeria Immigration Service has duly appointed and designated Immigration Attachés to serve in Nigerian missions across different continents to handle essential migration-related responsibilities such as visa processing, passport interventions, data verification, and immigration intelligence.
“Unfortunately, the officers are yet to be deployed, leaving some missions with only one officer shouldering immigration responsibilities of a whole country, including attending to multiple requests from both Nigerians and foreign nationals. This situation is not only inefficient but undiplomatic and inconsistent with international best practices,” the civic organization said.
NEFGAD pointed out that countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Canada have adequate immigration and consular officers in their missions, ensuring smooth handling of passports, visas, residency issues, and other services.
It added that such officers improve national security, support movement across borders, and strengthen cooperation between nations.
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According to the group, Nigerian missions suffer setbacks because they lack a similar structure, leaving many citizens abroad with limited support.
The organization also drew attention to the financial crisis affecting some attachés and mission staff who have not been paid for months.
“This neglect does not only affect their morale and productivity but also damages Nigeria’s reputation before host countries,” the CSO said.
The group stressed that attachés who are under financial pressure cannot properly carry out their duties or defend the interests of the country.