Nigerians in UK Slam Nigerian High Commission in London Over Passport Delays, Poor Communication

Nigerians in UK Slam Nigerian High Commission in London Over Passport Delays, Poor Communication

Thousands of Nigerians living in the United Kingdom are expressing growing frustration over persistent passport processing delays and poor customer service at the Nigerian High Commission in London.

Many affected applicants have taken to social media to share their experiences, accusing the embassy of failing to respond to phone calls, ignoring emails, and making passport renewal increasingly difficult.

Passport Processing Delays Spark Outrage

Several Nigerians in the UK say obtaining or renewing a Nigerian passport has become a frustrating and time-consuming process.

According to affected applicants, appointments for biometric enrolment are severely delayed, with some people reportedly unable to secure available dates until January 2027.

The lengthy wait has left many worried, especially those whose passports are close to expiring or who need valid travel documents for work, education, or international travel.

Applicants Complain About Glitches in New Passport Application System

In addition to long waiting times, Nigerians have also raised concerns about the newly introduced online passport application platform.

One applicant, who spoke anonymously, claimed the system frequently develops technical glitches after payment is made.

«"The newly introduced app has a lot of glitches. Some people pay through the website but encounter errors that prevent them from completing their applications, and getting refunds is another challenge," the applicant said.»

Embassy Accused of Ignoring Calls and Emails

Beyond passport delays, many Nigerians say contacting the Nigerian High Commission has become nearly impossible.

They allege that official phone numbers go unanswered while emails often receive no reply, leaving applicants without updates or guidance.

UK-based Nigerian social entrepreneur Akintayo Emmanuel said he experienced the communication challenges firsthand.

According to him, repeated attempts to reach the embassy through its official telephone lines were unsuccessful.

«"I needed to contact the embassy over an important matter. I kept calling, but nobody answered. They were simply unreachable," Emmanuel said.»

Nigerians Describe Poor Treatment at the Embassy

Some Nigerians also criticised the conditions applicants face during physical visits to the High Commission.

One dissatisfied applicant recalled seeing long queues of Nigerians waiting outside in freezing weather before being denied entry without adequate explanation.

«"The last time I visited the embassy, Nigerians were standing outside in the freezing cold and were treated like refugees fleeing a war zone. There has been no reliable way to contact the High Commission regarding passport applications. Phone calls are ignored, and emails rarely receive any response."»

Former Nigerian Community Leader Calls for Urgent Reforms

Reacting to the growing complaints, former leader of the Nigerian community in the UK, Benjamin Kuti, urged the Nigerian High Commission to improve its communication and customer service.

He questioned how an embassy could operate without dependable communication channels.

«"How can an embassy operate without a reliable telephone number or even respond to official emails from members of the public? People travel to the embassy only to be turned away without proper communication or guidance."»

Kuti added that introducing a functional telephone service and responding promptly to enquiries would significantly improve the experience for Nigerians seeking consular services.

Calls Grow for Better Service Delivery

The increasing number of complaints has renewed calls for the Nigerian High Commission in London to modernise its passport processing system, improve customer support, and reduce waiting times.

Many Nigerians in the UK believe faster passport processing, reliable communication, and a more efficient appointment system are urgently needed to restore confidence in the country's diplomatic services abroad.

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