In a bold move to restore Nigeria’s global reputation, the Senate has approved a bill that imposes a 10-year international passport ban on Nigerians convicted of crimes abroad. The bill, sponsored by Senator Abubakar Bello (Niger North), seeks to amend the Passport (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act by introducing stricter penalties aimed at discouraging criminal conduct and rebuilding trust in the Nigerian passport.
Speaking on the floor of the Senate, Senator Onawo Ogwoshi, representing the bill’s sponsor, said the legislation is both necessary and timely. He emphasized that the image of the Nigerian passport has suffered greatly due to the actions of a few individuals involved in crime overseas. “Innocent and patriotic Nigerians face constant suspicion, visa denials, and harassment in airports because of the misconduct of others,” he said. “The green passport, once a symbol of pride, has been reduced to a mark of suspicion — this is nothing short of a national emergency.”
According to Mediaplusng.com, the bill proposes that any Nigerian convicted of a crime in a foreign country will have their passport withdrawn for ten years after completing their sentence. Lawmakers believe this measure will not only serve as punishment but also send a strong message to the international community that Nigeria is serious about accountability and image restoration.
