Passport Drama: Nigerians Kick as FG Defends Hike to ₦100,000, ₦200,000

By Femi Oyewale

The Federal Government’s decision to raise the cost of Nigerian international passports has sparked outrage across the country, with many citizens describing the move as insensitive at a time of economic hardship.

Beginning September 1, the price of the standard 32-page passport will rise to ₦100,000, while the 64-page booklet with a ten-year validity will now cost ₦200,000. This represents a doubling of fees within just over a year, intensifying debates about affordability, fairness, and government priorities.

Government’s Defence

Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo defended the hike, insisting it was necessary to modernize the passport system and stamp out corruption in the issuance process. He explained that a new centralized personalization centre will ensure passports are ready within 24 hours, curbing delays and eliminating opportunities for middlemen to exploit applicants.

According to him, the review is not merely about revenue but about restoring dignity to Nigeria’s travel documents, which have suffered from abuse and credibility issues. Officials argue that by setting a higher, uniform fee and tightening the system, the days of backdoor payments and extortion—which often saw desperate applicants spend as much as ₦200,000 unofficially—would be over.

Public Outcry

Yet the explanation has done little to calm tempers. From academics to civil society groups, voices of dissent are rising. Many argue that the sharp increase effectively makes passports a luxury reserved for the wealthy. For young graduates, teachers, and mid-level professionals already struggling with stagnant incomes and soaring inflation, the new fee is simply out of reach.

Some see the move as elitist, deepening inequality by dividing citizens into those who can afford international mobility and those who cannot. Others warn that the hike reflects a troubling pattern of government relying on citizens for revenue generation without providing proportional relief or opportunities.

A Divided Debate

While critics condemn the policy as harsh, supporters point out that the cost of producing and securing passports has increased, and argue that genuine travellers will pay regardless of the price. To them, the promise of speed, transparency, and an end to extortion justifies the hike.

Still, the broader question remains: should access to a passport—a document central to mobility, education, and opportunity—be determined by financial muscle alone?

As Nigerians adjust to the reality of ₦100,000 and ₦200,000 passports, the clash between government justification and public frustration underscores a larger national tension: the struggle between reforms aimed at efficiency and the harsh economic realities faced by ordinary people.

Alpha Morgan Bank Expands Footprint with Three New Branches

Alpha Morgan Bank announced the opening of three new branches in Maitama Abuja, Garki Abuja and Olu Obasanjo Road, Port Harcourt, a strategic move that reinforces the bank’s commitment to expanding access to satisfying banking services across Nigeria.

With headquarters in Wuse 2, Abuja, and kickstart with over 14 branches nationwide, the bank’s expansion is expected to create several opportunities, supporting employment opportunities, stimulating small business growth and development initiatives through strategic partnerships and outreach.

“This growth is about deepening our connection to the communities we serve,” said Mr. Ade Buraimo, Managing Director/CEO of Alpha Morgan Bank. “We are not just opening doors; we are opening opportunities.”

The bank also offers tailored banking solutions, through its digital and *734# USSD banking. Alpha Morgan Bank is ensuring that individuals and businesses, regardless of background or digital literacy, can participate fully in the financial ecosystem.

Alpha Morgan Bank’s growth is anchored in a bold commitment to delivering satisfying banking to customers.
As the new branches open their doors, the Bank invites individuals, entrepreneurs, and corporate clients to walk in and experience its approach to Satisfying Banking.

Actress Joke Lawal Unveiled as Brand Ambassador for Giant African Real Estate Firm, Masterpiece Homes

– Seals Three-Year Contract

By Oluwaseun Fabiyi

Masterpiece Homes Development and Gardens Limited has taken a bold step in strengthening its brand presence by unveiling celebrated Nollywood actress Joke Lawal as its new brand ambassador. The landmark announcement came with the signing of a three-year contract at the company’s head office in Lagos on Friday, August 22, 2025.

The unveiling ceremony, described as a major milestone in the company’s growth, featured a symbolic presentation of a branded Masterpiece T-shirt and the signing of official documents by Joke Lawal and the company’s Chairman, Prophet Israel Oladele Ogundipe, alongside the Group Managing Director, Mr. Emmanuel Oladimeji. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as dignitaries, industry stakeholders, and guests applauded the partnership.

Speaking at the event, Prophet Ogundipe expressed pride in the company’s achievements despite industry challenges. He emphasized the importance of youth participation in Nigeria’s real estate sector for long-term sustainability. “Masterpiece Homes continues to be a trailblazer in the industry. This partnership with Joke Lawal is a testament to our vision of connecting heritage, innovation, and trust,” he said.

Group Managing Director, Mr. Oladimeji, hailed the initiative as a strategic move that positions Masterpiece Homes beyond the confines of a conventional real estate firm. “This is more than business—it is about celebrating our resilience and creativity as Nigerians. Our new brand ambassador will play a pivotal role in reinforcing our value chain while ensuring we preserve a genuine real estate culture for generations,” he stated.

Joke Lawal, visibly elated, described Masterpiece Homes as a symbol of innovation and authenticity in Nigerian real estate. “This unveiling represents a bold step in redefining the real estate sector in Nigeria. Masterpiece Homes is not just a company—it is a celebration of identity, trust, and vision,” she remarked.

The event featured vibrant performances, with guests clad in branded attires, reflecting the company’s culture of community celebration.

Masterpiece Homes Development and Gardens Limited has long been recognized as a reputable real estate brand connecting Nigerians at home and abroad to legitimate homeownership opportunities. With Nigeria’s real estate now ranked as the nation’s third-largest sector—behind crop production and trade—the company has renewed its commitment to bridging investment opportunities between Africa and the diaspora.

The unveiling of Joke Lawal as brand ambassador, according to Mr. Oladimeji, is not only a milestone for Masterpiece Homes but also a stimulus for broader industry growth. “Diaspora investments in Nigerian real estate remain vital. By creating systems that make homeownership seamless, Masterpiece ensures a win-win for all stakeholders,” he noted.

With this partnership, Masterpiece Homes Development and Gardens Limited positions itself to expand its influence and uphold its reputation as a trusted leader in Africa’s booming real estate market.

Oluwaseun Fabiyi is the official media consultant to Masterpiece Homes Development and Gardens Limited