Is a National Identification Number (NIN) absolutely mandatory for all Nigerian citizens, including children and infants, applying for a Nigerian international passport, both for first-time applications and renewals? If so, what is the specific legal basis or government regulation that mandates this? Are there any exceptions to this requirement, such as for Nigerians residing abroad who may not have been able to obtain a NIN, or in cases of emergency travel? Furthermore, what alternative forms of identification are accepted if a NIN is not immediately available, and what steps can applicants take to obtain a NIN if they don’t currently have one, especially considering potential delays or challenges in the NIN registration process? Finally, what are the consequences of not providing a NIN during the passport application process?

Answer

Yes, the National Identification Number (NIN) is mandatory for Nigerian passport application.

The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has made the NIN a mandatory requirement for passport application to enhance the integrity of the Nigerian passport and to streamline the identity verification process. All applicants, both first-time applicants and those seeking renewal, are required to provide their NIN. This requirement is enforced to ensure a seamless, accurate, and reliable identity management system.