More Nigerians in the UK can complete passport renewals, after the Nigeria Immigration Service moved its Special Passport Intervention Exercise forward to October 30, 2026. The extension, announced by the Service Public Relations Officer Deputy Comptroller of Immigration Akinsola Akinlabi, follows strong turnout and continued demand for in-person passport services.
The extension was approved on the directive of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and replaces an earlier deadline of October 3, 2026. The NIS said the temporary programme will run from October 6 to October 30 at designated centres across the United Kingdom, with details of a Cardiff venue to be published later.
Akinlabi urged Nigerians resident in the UK to use the extra time to complete renewal applications at the intervention sites. He reminded applicants that the Contactless Passport Application System remains available, enabling eligible Nigerians to renew without visiting a mission in person.
The NIS listed a set of requirements applicants must bring to intervention appointments, including a completed application form, proof of payment, an intervention appointment printout, and a self-addressed return envelope. The service also warned that cash payments will not be accepted at exercise venues, and applicants must present their current passports when seeking renewal.
The statement included contact options for enquiries, citing a service email and a WhatsApp line at +234 916 087 8000. The agency reaffirmed its aim to provide efficient, transparent and responsive passport services to Nigerians at home and abroad.
The intervention programme has already seen operational adjustments. The Nigeria High Commission moved its London operation from Liyali Lounge to 56-57 Fleet Street, Temple, London after citing "unforeseen technical challenges," and reports said some applicants were asked to leave the original venue. The NIS also deployed its Abuja Passport Intervention Team to support the exercise. Earlier scheduling had set services for London and Manchester between September 7 and 19, with Aberdeen and Cardiff slated for September 21 to 26.
The extension lengthens the temporary window for in-person renewals in the UK and gives applicants additional chances to secure appointments. Nigerians in the UK should monitor the Nigeria High Commission website and official NIS communications for venue updates and further instructions.
