The Oyo command of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) says it has resumed accepting applications for new passports in the state.

The command’s comptroller, Safiya Mohammed, announced this on Tuesday, in Ibadan, at a send-off for Usman Babangida, the outgoing comptroller.

The NIS had suspended fresh passport applications to clear a backlog of applications received before May 17.

According to Mohammed, the command had begun receiving new applications, in line with a directive by the NIS’ Comptroller-General, Muhammad Babandede.

“The agency had suspended new applications for passports to clear the backlog of passport applications that were received. One of the priorities of the CG is the processing and prompt delivery of passports to applicants.

“He actually told me to see that the backlog is cleared. The command over the weekend worked overnight, and we were able to produce over 3,000 passports out of the backlog.

“This is to give room for new applicants to be attended to. New applications started 12 midnight today (Tuesday),’’ she said.

Ms Mohammed thanked the outgoing comptroller for the precedents he set in the command, describing him as a dedicated and hardworking man.

The former comptroller lauded Governor Seyi Makinde and sister security heads for their support during his nine-month service in the state.

He also commended the officers and men of the command for their maximum support, saying although his term in the state was short, it was “quite memorable.’’

(NAN)