By Olufemi Adebayo
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has announced an ongoing upgrade and maintenance of its passport portal for applicants within Nigeria.
In a public notice shared on Sunday via its official ‘X’ page, the NIS reassured Nigerians that other services, including passport applications for citizens abroad, remain fully operational during the maintenance period.
The service stated that its team is “working tirelessly” to complete the upgrade and restore full functionality within 72 hours.
“We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and deeply appreciate your patience and understanding,” the notice read. It emphasized that the upgrade is part of efforts to enhance service delivery.
Reaffirming its commitment to excellence, the NIS pledged to provide efficient services to Nigerians at home and abroad.
Meanwhile, the agency has issued a critical security advisory concerning the emergence of a new sect that could threaten national security.
In a circular dated January 14, 2025, signed by the Principal Staff Officer to the Comptroller General, Dr. Adedotun Aridegbe, a Controller of Immigration Service, the NIS alerted its directorates, zones, training institutions, commands, and border formations about the group.
“I am directed to inform you that the intelligence gathered by the Service reveals the emergence of a new sect called ACHAD Life Mission International,” the circular stated.
According to the NIS, the sect has its headquarters in Kaduna, and its leader, Mr. Yokana, resides in Jos, Plateau State. The intelligence suggests that the sect rejects both Islam and Christianity, advocating instead for the restoration of African traditions while allegedly engaging in human trafficking and child separation.
“The intelligence reports that the sect neither believes in Islam nor Christianity, but preaches the restoration of African tradition and support to humanity,” the statement added.
The announcement underscores the dual focus of the NIS: enhancing public service delivery while addressing pressing security concerns affecting the nation.