IN a move aimed at restoring Nigeria’s global image, the Senate has passed a bill that would impose a 10-year international passport ban on Nigerians convicted of crimes overseas.
The proposed legislation, sponsored by Senator Abubakar Bello (Niger North), seeks to amend the Passport (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act to introduce tougher sanctions against Nigerians found guilty of criminal offences abroad.
Lawmakers say the measure is designed to deter unlawful conduct and help rebuild respect for the Nigerian passport, which they lament has lost its former prestige.
Presenting the bill on the Senate floor, Senator Onawo Ogwoshi, who spoke on behalf of the sponsor, described the proposal as “necessary and urgent.”
He noted that innocent Nigerians often face discrimination and undue scrutiny at airports and embassies because of the actions of a few.
“The green passport, once a symbol of pride, is now widely disrespected. Innocent and patriotic citizens suffer harassment and visa denials due to the misconduct of others — that is nothing less than a national emergency,” he said.
According to the bill, any Nigerian convicted in a foreign country would have their passport withdrawn for at least ten years after completing their sentence.
Lawmakers believe this will serve both as a deterrent and as a message to the international community that Nigeria takes accountability seriously.
The bill is part of ongoing legislative efforts to promote discipline among Nigerians abroad and to reaffirm the integrity of the country’s travel documents.