The Federal Government has announced plans to introduce a Single Travel Emergency Passport (STEP) in 2026 to replace the current Single Travel Emergency Certificate (STEC).
The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nandap, disclosed this on Monday in Abuja during the decoration ceremony of 46 newly promoted Assistant Comptrollers of Immigration to Comptrollers.
Nandap said the initiative is part of broader reforms aimed at modernising immigration services and enhancing operational efficiency through technology-driven solutions.
“We are looking forward to 2026 as a year of reforms to optimise our services—ranging from visa processing and passport production to contactless solutions,” she said.
According to her, the proposed Single Travel Emergency Passport will be biometric-based and designed to provide a more secure and seamless alternative for Nigerians requiring emergency travel documentation.
She also highlighted other ongoing innovations, including the recently launched ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card (ENBIC), noting that the NIS is focused on ensuring seamless processes across all service platforms.
Addressing the newly promoted officers, the NIS boss charged them to demonstrate heightened vigilance, professionalism and leadership, particularly amid Nigeria’s prevailing security challenges.
Nandap emphasised that promotion within the Service is earned through dedication, integrity and competence, not merely years of service.
She commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what she described as his commitment to institutional reforms and national security, and acknowledged the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for providing strategic oversight and strengthening the operational capacity of the Service.
The Comptroller-General warned that the NIS would not tolerate indiscipline or unprofessional conduct, urging officers to embrace innovation, adapt to emerging challenges and prioritise the interest of the Service.
She also appreciated the support of officers’ families and encouraged personnel who were not promoted to remain steadfast, assuring them that diligence and commitment would be rewarded in due course.