Senate Moves to Restore Dignity of Nigerian Passport, as Bill Proposes 10-Year Revocation of Passports for Citizens Convicted Abroad

The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday took a decisive legislative step toward restoring the integrity and global reputation of the country’s passport as it advanced a bill seeking to revoke the international passports of Nigerians convicted of crimes overseas for a minimum period of ten years.

The proposed legislation, sponsored by Senator Abubakar Bello representing Niger North Senatorial District, aims to amend the Passport (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act to include stronger punitive measures against individuals whose criminal activities abroad tarnish the image of the nation and its law-abiding citizens. The development was reported by Channels Television.

Leading the debate on behalf of the bill’s sponsor, Senator Onawo Ogwoshi (Nasarawa South) emphasized the urgency and importance of the bill, noting that it is both punitive and deterrent, designed to discourage criminal conduct that undermines the integrity of the Nigerian passport and the nation’s citizens on the global stage.

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 amendment seeks to enforce a 10-year withdrawal of the international passport of any Nigerian who has been convicted and served a sentence abroad, to take effect immediately after the completion of their foreign sentence.

Supporters of the bill within the Senate chamber believe that the proposal represents a bold step toward reclaiming Nigeria’s international image and demonstrating accountability to global partners. They argued that by introducing such sanctions, Nigeria would send a strong message that the government does not condone criminal acts committed by its nationals beyond its borders.

If passed into law, the measure is expected to not only deter Nigerians from engaging in criminal activities abroad but also reaffirm the credibility of the Nigerian passport, which in recent years has faced increased scrutiny and declining respect in international circles.