The Senate has moved to approve a bill that would revoke the passports of Nigerians convicted abroad for ten years.
Lawmakers say the measure aims to protect Nigeria’s global image.
The Nigerian Senate has advanced a bill seeking to revoke the international passports of citizens convicted of crimes abroad for a minimum of ten years. The move is aimed at restoring Nigeria’s global reputation and safeguarding the integrity of the country’s passport.
The proposed legislation, sponsored by Senator Abubakar Bello of Niger North, seeks to amend the Passport (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act by introducing stricter penalties for Nigerians found guilty of criminal offences overseas.
Presenting the bill on the Senate floor on behalf of the sponsor, Senator Onawo Ogwoshi said the measure would serve as a strong deterrent to those damaging the country’s image internationally. He lamented that many innocent Nigerians continue to face discrimination at airports and during visa applications because of the unlawful actions of a few.
“The green passport, once a symbol of pride, has been reduced to a source of suspicion and ridicule due to the conduct of a small number of citizens,” Ogwoshi stated. “This bill is necessary to protect the dignity of law-abiding Nigerians and restore the global respect our passport once commanded.”
According to the provisions of the bill, Nigerians convicted of crimes in foreign countries would have their passports withdrawn for ten years after serving their sentence. Lawmakers backing the proposal argue that the punishment would demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to accountability and discourage criminal activity among citizens abroad.
If passed, the law would empower relevant authorities to suspend or revoke travel documents of offenders and impose strict penalties for attempts to circumvent the restriction. Supporters believe this measure will reinforce Nigeria’s determination to rebuild its international credibility, which has been affected by cases of fraud, human trafficking, and other transnational crimes involving a minority of citizens.
The bill has successfully passed its second reading and has been referred to the Senate Committee on Interior for further legislative scrutiny before it returns for final passage.
