The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has announced the introduction of a new Single Travel Emergency Passport (STEP) for Nigerians abroad who lose or misplace their passports, replacing the existing Emergency Travel Certificate (ETC).

Comptroller-General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap, disclosed this during the joint migration meeting of the Khartoum, Rabat, and Niamey Processes held in Abuja and co-hosted by Nigeria and France.

According to a statement signed by the Service’s Public Relations Officer, ACI A. S. Akinlabi, the STEP is a biometric-based passport designed to ensure safer and more secure travel for Nigerians returning home in emergency situations.

“The new travel document will be issued at Nigerian embassies and consulates abroad and will be valid for a single entry only,” the statement read.

Nandap explained that the initiative is part of the Service’s broader reforms to enhance identity management and border governance, aligning Nigeria’s immigration procedures with global best practices.

She reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to safe and orderly migration through stronger regional and international cooperation.

“The Nigeria Immigration Service will continue to align its operations with international standards to ensure efficient service delivery and robust identity protection,” Nandap added.

The introduction of the Single Travel Emergency Passport marks a significant step in modernizing Nigeria’s immigration framework and improving assistance to citizens in distress abroad.