The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has cautioned the public to treat any alternative passport application platforms as fraudulent.
In a statement shared on its X handle on Monday, the agency said claims circulating online about its passport application and payment system are false, misleading, and capable of causing public confusion.
It reiterated that its digital passport process remains secure and is conducted strictly through its official portal, stressing that: “The NIS operates a secure, transparent, and government-approved passport application system, which is accessible exclusively through its official portal.”
The service emphasised that its website is the only authorised platform for all passport applications and payments, both for Nigerians within the country and those abroad.
NIS also dismissed suggestions linking its payment process to any religious group or private organisation.
“At no time has the Service partnered with or authorised any religious organisation, private entity, or individual to act as an intermediary or receiving account on its behalf,” the statement read.
Addressing the specific allegations, the agency described them as completely unfounded.
“Recent allegations suggesting that the name of a religious organization appears in the Service’s payment process are entirely false and do not reflect the structure, integrity, or processes of the NIS,” it said.
The service added that it has begun investigating the source of the misinformation and warned that those responsible will face consequences.
“The Nigeria Immigration Service has taken note of this purported allegation and is currently investigating the matter. Appropriate action will be taken against any individuals or groups found culpable,” NIS added.
It urged the public to rely solely on official communication channels and avoid using unofficial links or third-party intermediaries when applying for passports.