By Uboh-Ekong Treasure
In a renewed effort to restore Nigeria’s global reputation, the Senate has advanced a bill proposing the withdrawal of international passports from Nigerians convicted of crimes overseas for up to 10 years after completing their sentences.
The bill, sponsored by Senator Abubakar Bello (Niger North), seeks to amend the Passport (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act to introduce tougher measures against citizens found guilty of criminal acts abroad. Lawmakers say the move is aimed at rebuilding global trust in the Nigerian passport and deterring transnational offences that have damaged the country’s image.
Introducing the bill on the Senate floor, Senator Onawo Ogwoshi explained that the proposal was inspired by growing concerns about how Nigeria’s reputation suffers because of the actions of a few. He described the measure as a corrective step to protect millions of law-abiding Nigerians from collective prejudice when travelling internationally.
“The Nigerian passport, once regarded with respect, now attracts suspicion in many airports,” Ogwoshi said. “This legislation is not to punish, but to remind the world that Nigeria values integrity and accountability.”
If passed into law, the legislation would authorize the Ministry of Interior and relevant agencies to revoke the travel documents of offenders for a decade after their release, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to ethical conduct beyond its borders.
Supporters of the bill argue that it will help counteract the stigma often attached to Nigerian travelers, promote responsible citizenship, and strengthen diplomatic relations strained by cases of fraud, drug trafficking, and other criminal offences involving a small minority of citizens.
