Immigration Service dismisses viral claims about payment system, insists only its official portal is authorised……
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has issued a strong warning to Nigerians, cautioning against the use of unauthorised platforms for passport applications and payments, describing them as fraudulent and misleading.
In a statement released on Monday via its official X account, the agency dismissed recent claims circulating online about irregularities in its passport processing system, stating that such reports are false and capable of causing unnecessary confusion among applicants.
The Service reiterated that its passport application process remains fully digital, secure, and accessible through its approved government portal.
According to the NIS, all passport-related services whether for applicants within Nigeria or those in the diaspora must be conducted exclusively on its official website, which it described as the only recognised channel for submissions and payments.
The agency also firmly denied allegations suggesting that any religious body or private organisation is involved in its payment process.
“At no time has the Service authorised any religious organisation, private entity, or individual to act on its behalf or serve as an intermediary in passport payments,” the statement emphasized.
Addressing a specific viral claim that a religious organisation’s name appears within its payment system, the NIS described the allegation as entirely baseless and inconsistent with its operational structure.
“These claims do not reflect the integrity, transparency, or processes of the Nigeria Immigration Service,” the agency stated.
In response to the misinformation, the Service confirmed that it has launched an investigation to trace the origin of the claims and identify those responsible for spreading them.
It warned that individuals or groups found to be behind the false reports would face appropriate sanctions.
The NIS further urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and avoid engaging with unofficial links, third-party agents, or any platform not directly affiliated with the Service.
For now, the agency says its message is clear: applicants should rely solely on verified communication channels to avoid falling victim to scams and to ensure the integrity of their passport applications.
