Popular Nigerian actress, Jemima Osunde, has expressed her frustration and disappointment over the recent increase in passport fees in Nigeria. In a series of tweets, Osunde shared her personal experience and raised concerns about the impact of the fee hike on ordinary citizens, particularly those with limited financial resources.
“I was literally daydreaming about marriage and planning my honeymoon when I checked the passport website,” Osunde wrote. “The new fees are a joke! I’m not even sure I can afford to travel anymore.
The actress’s comments have struck a chord with many Nigerians who have also been affected by the passport fee increase. The new fees have been widely criticized as excessive and discriminatory. Critics argue that the hike will disproportionately impact low-income individuals and small businesses, as well as students and travelers.
Osunde’s tweets have sparked a lively debate on social media, with many Nigerians sharing their own experiences and frustrations with the passport application process. Some have called for a reversal of the fee increase, while others have suggested alternative solutions, such as reducing processing times or introducing more affordable options.
The passport fee hike has also raised concerns about the potential impact on the Nigerian economy. Tourism is a significant source of revenue for the country, and the increased cost of obtaining passports could deter international travelers from visiting. Additionally, the hike could hinder the ability of Nigerians to travel for business, education, and medical treatment.
In response to the public outcry, the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has defended the fee increase, stating that it is necessary to modernize its operations and improve the quality of passport services. The NIS has also argued that the new fees are still competitive compared to other countries in the region.
However, many Nigerians remain unconvinced by the NIS’s explanation. They argue that the fee increase is excessive and that the NIS could have found more equitable ways to generate revenue. Critics also point to the fact that the NIS has a history of inefficiencies and delays, and that the new fees do not guarantee faster or more reliable service.
Osunde’s lamentation has highlighted the challenges faced by many Nigerians who rely on passports for travel and international engagement. As the debate over the passport fee increase continues, it is clear that the issue has struck a nerve with the public and has raised important questions about the government’s priorities and its commitment to the welfare of its citizens.
