The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday advanced a bill that would revoke the international passports of Nigerians convicted of crimes overseas for a minimum of ten years.

The bill, brought forward by Senator Abubakar Bello (Niger North), seeks to amend the Passport (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act.

According to lawmakers, the move is aimed at protecting Nigeria’s global reputation and restoring confidence in the country’s travel documents.

Presenting the bill on the Senate floor, Senator Onawo Ogwoshi (Nasarawa South), who spoke on behalf of the sponsor, described the legislation as “urgent and necessary.”

Ogwoshi said the bill is both punitive and deterrent.

He added that the bill will discourage criminal conduct that damages the standing of the Nigerian passport and its citizens abroad.

According to him, “Innocent and patriotic Nigerians suffer harassment in airports, visa denials, and constant suspicion simply because of the actions of a few.

“The green passport, once a symbol of pride, is now widely disrespected. That is nothing less than a state of emergency.”

The proposed law would strip convicted individuals of their Nigerian passport for 10 years after they have completed their sentence in a foreign country.

Supporters of the bill argue that it will demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to accountability, discourage criminal activity abroad, and help rebuild trust with international partners.