By Ameh Gabriel
The Central Association of Nigerians in the United Kingdom (CANUK) has dismissed recent social media claims alleging extortion in the processing of Emergency Travel Certificates (ETCs) and passports at the Nigerian High Commission in London.
In a statement, CANUK described the reports as “inaccurate and misleading,” clarifying that all charges for services are in line with the official statutory fee structure.
The controversy arose after a video circulated on social media by Dr. Chido A.A alleged that an ETC was issued at an inflated cost of £132. However, CANUK explained that the official charges remain:
£120 Standard fee for an Emergency Travel Certificate (ETC)
£12 Optional Royal Mail secure postage, for applicants who choose delivery instead of in-person collection
$230 Standard fee for a 64-page passport booklet (issuance/renewal)
$150 Standard fee for a 32-page passport booklet (issuance/renewal)
According to CANUK, records confirm that Dr. Chido applied for ETCs for two individuals, paying a total of £264 covering both statutory fees and the optional postage service.
The Association stressed that the ETC is not “an ordinary paper,” but a specially printed, security-enhanced document embedded with Nigeria’s Coat of Arms, designed for international recognition by border and airport authorities.
CANUK further advised Nigerians in the UK to always process their passport and ETC applications directly through the Nigerian High Commission to avoid misinformation, additional costs, and delays that often arise from using unauthorised intermediaries.
Speaking on behalf of the Association, CANUK Chairman Hon. Ily Maisanda reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Nigerian High Commission in ensuring transparency, accountability, and improved service delivery to the Nigerian community in the UK.
For more information on passport and ETC applications, Nigerians are encouraged to contact:
Hon. Judith Akuta
1st Vice Chair (Passport Matters)
info@canukonline.com | 📞 +44 7904 262390
Signed:
Rose P. Graham, Publicity Secretary, CANUK
Tekena Douglas, Assistant Publicity Secretary, CANUK
