NIS Extends UK Passport Services to End of October Amid Surging Demand

Following widespread demand from Nigerian nationals in the diaspora, the Nigeria Immigration Service has postponed its special passport intervention programme's closing date in the United Kingdom until October 30, 2026. Deputy Comptroller of Immigration Akinsola Akinlabi, serving as the NIS Public Relations Officer, made this announcement on September 25, 2026, pursuant to directions issued by the Minister of Interior.

Within recent weeks, this represents the second postponement by the NIS. Previously, officials had announced an October 3 deadline after observing strong participation at intervention centres operating in London and Manchester.

The repeated postponement of the programme window demonstrates what officials characterize as exceptionally strong turnout among Nigerians abroad who wish to obtain or update their travel documents during this period. Three UK cities—London, Manchester, and Aberdeen—host designated centres where applicants may submit passport applications and process renewals.

Those wishing to access the service must reserve appointments ahead of time. Addressing the substantial backlog of passport requests from Nigerian expatriates represents the core objective of this intervention exercise, especially in Western European nations and the UK where significant diaspora communities are present.

The service has not released specific data concerning applications already processed or currently awaiting action. Through October 30, Nigerian nationals residing in the UK will have an extended opportunity to submit their applications before the announced end date.

However, the NIS has not signaled whether additional extensions might occur if demand remains elevated after that deadline.