The Nigeria Immigration Service has cautioned the public against using unauthorised platforms for passport payments, warning that all official transactions must be carried out strictly through its approved channel.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the Service Public Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi, dismissed reports linking a religious organisation or other third parties to its payment system, describing the claims as false and misleading.
He explained that the passport application process remains secure, transparent, and fully government-controlled, stressing that the only recognised platform for payment and processing is the official portal: http://passport.immigration.gov.ng.
According to him, no religious body, private company, or individual has been authorised to act as an intermediary or collect payments on behalf of the service.
Akinlabi further clarified that any suggestion that external organisations are involved in the system does not reflect the structure or operations of the agency, adding that the official portal is sufficient for verification of all services.
He warned that any websites or links claiming to facilitate passport payments outside the approved system are fraudulent and should be avoided by the public.
The spokesperson said the service has begun investigating the source of the misleading claims, noting that early findings point to individuals attempting to deceive applicants and tarnish the agency’s reputation. He added that sanctions will be applied where wrongdoing is established.
He reiterated that the agency operates in line with government financial guidelines and only works with authorised payment service providers clearly listed on its official platform.
Akinlabi cautioned that applicants who make payments through unofficial channels do so at their own risk, as the service will not be held liable for any resulting losses.
He urged Nigerians to rely solely on the official portal and avoid engaging unverified agents or third-party websites, noting that no alternative payment channels are recognised.
The Immigration Service also encouraged the public to seek assistance through its verified communication channels, including its official social media handles and 24-hour contact numbers provided for inquiries and support.
The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of the agency’s commitment to strengthening its systems to prevent fraud and protect applicants from exploitation.