FG Doubles Passport Fees to ₦200,000, Nigerians React with Outrage

By Diafa Doubra,

The Federal Government has announced a 100 percent increase in the cost of obtaining an international passport, sparking mixed reactions among Nigerians.

According to the Nigeria Immigration Service, the new fee structure will take effect from September 1, 2025. Under the revised charges, the 64-page passport will now cost ₦200,000, up from the previous ₦100,000. Similarly, the 32-page booklet will also witness a significant rise, though specific figures are yet to be clarified by officials.

The government explained that the hike was necessary to cover production costs and improve service delivery. However, the decision has been met with criticism from citizens who fear it will worsen the financial burden already faced by many households.

Civil society groups and opposition leaders have also condemned the increase, describing it as “insensitive” at a time when Nigerians are grappling with high inflation and rising living costs. Calls have already begun for the government to reconsider the policy, with critics warning that it may push more citizens into illegal migration channels.

Despite the backlash, the Immigration Service insists that the new rates will help modernize passport processing and reduce delays, promising that applicants will experience faster and more efficient services.