The Nigeria Immigration Service has cautioned Nigerians against using unauthorised passport application and payment platforms, disclosing that no religious organisation or private entity has been approved to process passport applications on its behalf.

In a statement issued in Abuja, the Service described reports linking a religious organisation to its passport payment process as false, misleading, and fraudulent.

The Public Relations Officer of the Service, Akinsola Akinlabi, stated that all passport applications and payments must be processed exclusively through the official NIS passport portal approved by the Federal Government.

According to him, the platform remains the only recognised channel for passport related payments and processing for Nigerians both within the country and in the diaspora.

“At no time has the Service authorised any religious organisation, private company, or individual to serve as an intermediary or receive payments on its behalf,” he said.

Akinlabi explained that recent allegations suggesting that a religious body is part of the NIS payment structure do not reflect the operational procedures or integrity of the Service.

He urged Nigerians to disregard any third party payment links or platforms claiming to process passport applications for the NIS, warning that such platforms are fraudulent and could expose applicants to financial loss.

The Service disclosed that investigations have commenced to identify those behind the false claims, adding that preliminary findings indicate deliberate attempts to mislead the public and damage the reputation of the agency.

“Appropriate action will be taken against individuals or groups found culpable,” the statement added.

The NIS further reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability, and strict compliance with government financial regulations, stressing that it only works with licensed and accredited payment service providers integrated into its official portal.

It warned that any payment made outside approved channels is done entirely at the applicant’s risk, noting that the Service would not be liable for losses arising from unauthorised transactions.

The Service advised Nigerians seeking clarification or assistance to contact the NIS through its verified communication channels and official social media platforms.