THE Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), has issued a firm rebuttal against allegations that its passport application and payment processes have been compromised by the involvement of religious organisations.
The Service denied reports suggesting that a religious entity appears in its payment structure descriptintg it as l entirely false and the work of mischief-makers intent on tarnishing the agency’s reputation.

The Service’s National Public Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi, clarified that the NIS operates a secure and transparent system accessible exclusively through its official government approved portal.
He insisted that “At no time has the Service partnered with or authorised any religious organisation, private entity, or individual to act as an intermediary or receiving account on its behalf.”

The agency warned that any third party links or platforms claiming to process passport payments are fraudulent.
He pointed that a simple review of the authorised portal would confirm the “transparency and authenticity” of the existing platform.

Akinlabi also revealed that a preliminary investigation is already underway to identify the source of the claims.
“Preliminary investigations suggest the involvement of a mischief maker seeking to tarnish the reputation of the Service or mislead the public for ulterior motives.

“Appropriate action will be taken against any individuals or groups found culpable,” he said.
The NIS emphasised its strict adherence to government financial regulations, noting that it works only with licensed and accredited payment service providers clearly listed on its website.

“Payments made outside the official channels provided by the NIS are made at the owner’s sole risk,” the Service warned, adding that it would take no responsibility for any financial loss or inconvenience resulting from such transactions.

The public has been urged to exercise extreme caution and to avoid all dealings with unauthorised agents or third-party websites. The NIS reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining public trust by continuously monitoring its systems to prevent fraud or misrepresentation.

Citizens seeking clarification or assistance have been directed to use the Service’s verified communication channels, including its 24-hour contact centre and official social media handles.