The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has cautioned Nigerians and foreign nationals against using unauthorised individuals or organisations for passport and visa applications, insisting that all payments must be made exclusively through its official online portals.
In a statement released on its verified X account on Wednesday, the Service stressed that it has not appointed or partnered with any religious body, private organisation or individual to receive payments or process applications on its behalf.
The NIS said Nigerians applying for passports, whether residing in the country or abroad, should use only its official passport application portal for all payments and processing.
It also directed foreign nationals seeking entry into Nigeria to submit visa applications through its designated embassy visa portal or the official e-visa platform, depending on the type of application.
The agency warned that any payment requests made through third parties or unofficial channels are not recognised by the Service.
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“At no time has the Service partnered with or authorised any religious organisation, private entity or individual to act as intermediary or receiving account on its behalf,” the statement said.
To assist applicants, the NIS urged members of the public to seek information or clarification only through its verified communication channels.
The Service listed its official X accounts as @nigimmigration and @InquireAtNaija, while its verified Facebook and Instagram pages operate under @nigimmigration. It also provided WhatsApp support lines, 09160878000 and 09117717772, for enquiries.
Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and security in passport and visa processing, the NIS advised applicants to avoid fraudulent agents and deal only with its authorised digital platforms to protect themselves from scams.