The Organization for the Advancement of Nigerians (OAN) has called on Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, to address the ongoing passport printer crisis at the Nigerian Consulates in New York and Atlanta.
In a statement signed by OAN President, Olutomi Aregbesola, and sent to *Vanguard*, the group expressed disappointment over the government’s inaction despite repeated appeals. They noted that the lack of operational passport printers at these consulates has caused undue hardship, leaving many Nigerians stranded without valid travel documents.
**Challenges Highlighted**
Aregbesola pointed out that two passport printers are stationed at the Nigerian Embassy in Washington, D.C., but one remains idle. The refusal to deploy the unused printer to New York or Atlanta, reportedly due to concerns about potential dissatisfaction among missions, was described as illogical and counterproductive.
He emphasized that the New York Consulate, which oversees the largest jurisdiction of Nigerians in the U.S., faces significant delays and inefficiencies due to the lack of resources. Many Nigerians are forced to incur additional travel expenses and security risks to process their passports in Washington, D.C.
**OAN’s Appeal**
“This reasoning defies logic and reflects a lack of informed and strategic decision-making,” Aregbesola said, urging the minister to act swiftly to resolve the situation. He also called for equitable distribution of resources to ensure timely and effective service delivery across the consulates.
The group emphasized the critical need for accessible passport services, especially for Nigerians traveling for emergencies, work, or family commitments, and labeled the current situation “unacceptable in 2025.”
OAN reiterated its commitment to advocating for the welfare of Nigerians in the diaspora and urged the Nigerian government to prioritize its citizens’ needs abroad.
