Nigeria High Commission in Canada halts passport processing
The Nigeria High Commission in Ottawa, Canada, has suspended passport application processing to prevent the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in its community.
In a statement dated March 16, the high commission said that the suspension was effective immediately and would last until further notice.
It however, said the issuance of emergency travel certificates and visas would continue for those who need to travel urgently.
“This measure is in line with the Canadian government’s Centre for Disease Control and Prevention’s guideline of social distancing as a community mitigation strategy to limit the spread of COVID-19.
“It is a conscious effort by government to reduce contact between people and hopefully stem community transmission of the virus. Applicants for ETC and visas should, as usual, forward their applications by mail, attaching the relevant documents.
“The emergency travel certificates or visa would be processed and mailed back to the applicants accordingly,” the high commission said.
It advised Nigerians in Canada to strictly comply with the COVID-19-related guidelines provided by health authorities in their various communities.
Canada recorded no fewer than 324 confirmed coronavirus cases and four deaths across all 10 provinces as of Monday morning.
Apart from Canada, the Nigerian missions in the United States have also suspended passport and visa processing activities involving gathering of applicants in their premises.
