The Nigerian passport is not only every citizen’s prized possession, as it is not only a finite means of identification for any citizen of the country, it is every traveller’s badge of honour. Without it, it is almost impossible to visit any other part of the world or perform some basic transactions within the country. It therefore seems to be a matter of common sense to keep it protected by getting a cover for it.
No doubt, a passport cover may seem unimportant to many travellers who are more preoccupied with travel details, but it certainly is not just a frivolous accessory; it can prevent problems down the road. It is no secret that border officers abroad can reject a passport for being dog-eared, torn, or otherwise beat-up and these usually only happens when the passport is not protected.
If you are a Nigerian and wondering why you should get a passport holder or cover, Jovago.com, highlights five reasons you should not ignore.
- Security
There are pickpockets and thieves everywhere, especially at travel ports and terminals, and they target anything they think may be valuable or contain important or useful information such as the passport. Encasing your passport in a cover keeps it safe from the eyes and hands of would-be thieves. Without a cover, it is clearly visible when on your person, and an easy target. A Nigerian passport with a U.S. or UK Visa can fetch a lot of money on the black market and thieves will go to great lengths to get them. It is advisable to keep a passport with a unique holder with items that do not look like valuable identification.
- Easy identification
Passport covers usually come in different and unique designs that are different from the uniform design. Having your passport placed in a cover ensures that you can spot it amongst a large pile of identical passports, a normal occurrence at collection stations at airports and immigration centres. Also, if you are with your family, or a group of friends, it can be stressful having to open each individual one until you find the one that is yours. A cover saves time and reduces “wahala” at customs.
- Prevents damage
Most covers are waterproof and so they protect your passport from wear and tear as well as other elements. There is less chance of it being ruined by accidental water spillage, food stains, or ink marks not to mention the possibility of mud and other dirt and grime getting on it. It keeps the appearance of the passport intact and ensures it does not get damaged easily.
- Protects your personal information
Aside from keeping your passport from getting beat up, water-soaked or stained, some covers can also block RF readers from stealing your information. While identity thieves are not very common, the entire idea is not far-fetched. You never know who has you listed as a target.
- Keeps things stylish
There are different styles and designs of passport covers. Owning one that is catchy and appealing can serve to add to your overall look. Also, it can get you friends as people could accost you to ask about your passport cover: where you bought it or just compliment you on it. It could even be your ice-breaker; you could start conversations by asking people what they think of your passport holder.
Contributed by Nkem Ndem, Travel/Tech Writer, Jovago Nigeria
Skype: live:nkemndemv, Twitter: @ndemv, Instagram: @kem_dem
