The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has announced plans to introduce a Single Travel Emergency Passport (STEP) to replace the existing Emergency Travel Certificate (ETC). The move is part of efforts to modernize migration systems, enhance border governance, and strengthen identity management in line with global standards.

Key Features of STEP:

• Serves as a temporary, single-entry travel document for Nigerians abroad whose passports have expired, been lost, or stolen.
• Issued at designated Nigerian embassies and consulates.
• Enables secure and verifiable return of citizens to Nigeria.
• Forms part of NIS reforms aimed at improved service delivery and robust identity protection.

Comptroller-General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap, disclosed the initiative at the Joint Thematic Meeting of the Khartoum, Rabat, and Niamey Processes, co-hosted by Nigeria and France. She highlighted ongoing reforms to combat irregular migration, including:

• Enhanced border governance and migration management systems.
• Targeted capacity building for immigration personnel.
• Strengthened international collaboration to prevent migrant smuggling and human trafficking.

The meeting brought together stakeholders from:

• NCFRMI (National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons)
• NAPTIP (National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons)
• ECOWAS, African Union, European Union, and representatives from various African and European nations.

The discussions focused on coordinated prevention, protection, and prosecution strategies to tackle migrant smuggling and trafficking along major African and European migration routes.

Nandap reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to aligning migration policies with international best practices, ensuring orderly, safe, and regular migration.