Diaspora group seeks improved passport services in Poland, Central Europe

Nigerians living in Poland and other parts of Central and Eastern Europe have appealed to the Federal Government to strengthen and modernise passport and consular services in Warsaw to meet the growing needs of citizens residing in the region.

The appeal, according to a statement issued on Saturday, was made by the Chairman of Nigerians in Diaspora, Poland, Mr Adekunle Ayoola, while welcoming the Minister of Interior, Mr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and his entourage, including heads of paramilitary agencies and diplomats, during a visit and engagement with Nigerians living in Poland.

Ayoola, who also doubles as the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress in Poland, said in the statement personally signed by him that the increasing population of Nigerians in Poland and neighbouring countries had placed greater demand on passport renewal, biometric enrolment, and other consular services provided through the Nigerian mission in Warsaw.

He said that while Nigerians in the diaspora continue to make significant contributions to Nigeria’s development through investments, professional achievements, and cultural engagement, there is a need for improved access to essential government services.

Ayoola said access to passport and documentation services is not merely an administrative matter but is essential for work, education, travel, residency compliance, family responsibilities, and participation in civic life.

He stated, “We wish to acknowledge the efforts of our embassy officials, especially the Immigration Attaché and the relevant government agencies that continue to serve Nigerians in this region despite increasing demand and operational challenges. Their dedication and commitment are appreciated by our community. At the same time, we respectfully draw attention to the growing number of Nigerians residing in Poland and neighbouring countries who depend on Warsaw for passport and consular services.

“As our population continues to increase, so too does the demand for passport renewals, biometric enrolment, and related services. In this regard, we humbly appeal for continued investment in strengthening and modernising passport service delivery in Warsaw.

“Enhancing processing capacity, increasing appointment availability, expanding digital solutions, and providing additional resources where necessary would greatly improve service accessibility and efficiency for Nigerians throughout Central and Eastern Europe. Such improvements would not only reduce the burden on applicants who often travel considerable distances to access these services but would also further strengthen the relationship between Nigeria and its citizens abroad.

“An efficient and accessible passport system is a powerful demonstration of a nation’s commitment to its people, wherever they may reside. We offer this appeal in a spirit of partnership and shared responsibility. The Nigerian diaspora stands ready to support initiatives that enhance engagement between our government and Nigerians living abroad. Together, we can build stronger institutions, deepen national unity, and create opportunities that benefit both our citizens overseas and our nation as a whole.”

Highlights of the engagement included the presentation of awards of excellence by the diaspora group and Ondo indigenes in Poland to the minister, pledging to continue to lift the banner of their home country.