Cynthia Ezegwu
The Senate, on Tuesday, considered a bill seeking to withdraw the international passports of Nigerians convicted of crimes abroad for a minimum period of 10 years, as part of efforts to restore the country’s global reputation.
The bill, sponsored by Senator Abubakar Bello (Niger North), proposes an amendment to the Passport (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, introducing stricter penalties aimed at deterring criminal conduct among Nigerians overseas and improving the image of the Nigerian passport.
Presenting the bill on behalf of the sponsor, Senator Onawo Ogwoshi described the legislation as both “imperative and compelling,” stressing that it would serve as a deterrent to citizens whose unlawful activities abroad have damaged Nigeria’s international standing.
“Innocent and patriotic Nigerians suffer harassment in airports, visa denials, and constant suspicion simply because of the actions of a few,” Ogwoshi lamented. “The green passport, once a symbol of pride, is now widely disrespected. That is nothing less than a state of emergency.”
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Under the proposed amendment, any Nigerian convicted of a criminal offence in a foreign country would have their international passport withdrawn for 10 years after completing their sentence.
Lawmakers supporting the bill argue that the measure would hold offenders accountable while reassuring the global community of Nigeria’s commitment to discipline and integrity.
The bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Interior for further legislative action.