BREAKING: Senate Approves 10-Year Passport Ban For Nigerians Convicted Abroad

• The Senate has advanced a bill seeking to withdraw the passports of Nigerians convicted abroad for 10 years, in a move aimed at deterring criminal conduct and restoring the country’s international image.

As part of efforts to restore Nigeria’s global reputation, the Senate on Tuesday advanced a bill that would strip Nigerians convicted of crimes abroad of their international passports for a minimum of 10 years.

The bill, sponsored by Senator Abubakar Bello (Niger North), seeks to amend the Passport (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act by introducing tougher penalties aimed at deterring criminal conduct by Nigerians overseas and repairing the tarnished image of the Nigerian passport.

Leading the debate on the floor, Senator Onawo Ogwoshi, who spoke on behalf of the sponsor, described the proposal as both imperative and compelling. He stressed that it would serve as a strong deterrent to those who damage Nigeria’s international reputation through criminal activity.

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“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,” he lamented.

According to the proposed legislation, any Nigerian convicted of a crime in a foreign country would have their passport withdrawn for a decade following the completion of their sentence.

Lawmakers argue the measure will not only punish offenders but also signal to the global community that Nigeria is committed to accountability.