Nigerian diaspora leaders release landmark report on NIN, passport and other challenges

Nigerian community leaders across Europe, in collaboration with the International Advocacy for Human Rights and Anti-Corruption (IAHRAC) and other diaspora organisations, have released a comprehensive report outlining the most urgent challenges facing Nigerians abroad. The findings, drawn from a high-level leadership meeting and a cross-continental survey, shed light on deep frustrations with administrative processes, embassy capacity, and deteriorating security conditions at home.

The coalition—made up of presidents of Nigerian community associations, human rights advocates, and diaspora representatives from Europe and North America—met to review complaints submitted by Nigerians abroad. These insights informed a structured questionnaire, which was distributed widely and attracted strong participation. The report has now been compiled for onward transmission to the Nigerian Presidency.

Key Concerns Raised at the Leadership Meeting

1. Delays and Difficulties in NIN and Passport Processing

A central theme of the meeting was the widespread difficulty Nigerians face in obtaining or verifying their National Identification Number (NIN) abroad. Participants highlighted:

• Long delays and the need for many Nigerians to travel to distant cities—or even other countries—to complete NIN processes.
• The urgent need to modernise and digitalise both NIN and passport systems.
• The importance of enabling embassies to offer NIN and passport services concurrently.

The leaders stressed that physical verification should occur only in rare, clearly defined cases. For the vast majority of applicants, processes should be seamless and fully online.

2. Embassy Capacity and Infrastructure Gaps

Opinions differed on whether Nigerian embassies currently have the capacity to take on full NIN responsibilities.

• Some leaders believe embassies can deliver comprehensive NIN services if provided with adequate equipment, trained personnel, and funding.
• Others expressed reservations, pointing to existing staffing shortages, outdated systems, and limited technical skills.

However, all agreed on the need for embassies to be strengthened with:

• Better staffing and training
• Improved digital systems
• Updated immigration guidance
• Clear, accurate information on embassy websites

It was also emphasised that individuals authorised to handle NIN enrolment must be thoroughly vetted—or alternatively, that embassies should be given exclusive responsibility for issuing NINs abroad to ensure accountability.

3. Alarming Security Situation in Nigeria

The leadership also reviewed growing security concerns at home. They cited:

• Increasing incidents of kidnappings and violent attacks
• Public fears over the limited or slow response of security agencies
• Widespread scepticism toward calls for foreign military involvement

They insisted that sustainable solutions must be led by the Nigerian government, with stronger coordination and accountability from security agencies.

Survey Findings: Systemic NIN Challenges for Nigerians in the Diaspora

To complement stakeholder insights, the group conducted a survey among Nigerians in Europe and North America. The results paint a troubling picture of inefficiency, inconsistency and poor regulation in the NIN enrolment process abroad.

High Participation, High Difficulty

• 70% of respondents already have a NIN.
• 24% attempted to register but faced difficulties.
• Many rely on private agents because official registration centres are limited or non-existent in several countries.

Inconsistent and Excessive Fees

Costs varied sharply between countries:

• ₦5,000 in Nigeria
• £50–£100 in the UK
• CHF60–180 in Switzerland
• €55–150 across Europe

These discrepancies suggest weak oversight and, in some cases, possible exploitation.

Slow and Unpredictable Processing

• Only 27% received their NIN within a week.
• 36% waited more than a month or were still waiting at the time of the survey.

Major Frustrations

Respondents highlighted:

• Technical/system errors (49%)
• Concerns about data privacy (49%)
• High or unclear fees (32%)
• Poor communication and delayed responses (22%)
• Inability to verify NIN after registration (22%)

Strong Representation Across Europe

• The UK accounted for 41% of participants, followed by Germany and Switzerland (both 14%).
• A large majority were born in Nigeria (81%) and retain Nigerian passports (89%), reflecting continued reliance on Nigerian administrative institutions.

Diaspora Recommendations for Reform

Survey participants offered clear, practical solutions, including:

• A secure, fully digital platform for NIN registration and verification
• NIN and passport processing to be handled by embassies and consulates
• Mobile NIN registration units in major global cities
• Automatic NIN assignment for children born abroad
• Standardised global fees
• Better technology, reliable systems, and faster processing

These recommendations align closely with concerns previously raised by diaspora organisations and community leaders globally.

A Coordinated Push for Reform

This report represents one of the most unified and data-driven diaspora efforts to date. By combining stakeholder consultations with continental survey data, it provides both evidence-based insights and actionable recommendations.

Diaspora leaders have resolved to publish the findings in Nigerian newspapers to draw national attention and compel urgent government action. The next review meeting is scheduled for January 2026, when stakeholders are expected to assess the Nigerian government’s response and determine next steps.

The message from abroad is clear: Nigerians in the diaspora want efficient, transparent administrative systems and a safer homeland. And they are now speaking with one coordinated voice.