The Federal Government has commenced the review of applications from no fewer than 170 foreign nationals seeking Nigerian citizenship.
Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, disclosed this on Monday via the ministry’s official WhatsApp channel after presiding over a session of the Citizenship Advisory Committee in Abuja.
He said the committee, which includes representatives from the Ministries of Justice and Foreign Affairs, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), is responsible for assessing and recommending qualified applicants to President Bola Tinubu for approval.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasized the government’s commitment to fairness, transparency, and due diligence in the citizenship process, describing Nigerian nationality as “a privilege that must be earned.”
“Citizenship of the largest Black nation on earth is a valuable asset that demands careful consideration,” he said. “We will continue to ensure that integrity and character remain the foremost criteria.”
According to the minister, each applicant will undergo rigorous scrutiny, including background checks, security clearance, and verification of residency and contributions to national development.
After this process, the committee’s recommendations will be forwarded to the President for consideration and possible approval.
Tunji-Ojo reaffirmed the administration’s resolve to maintain integrity and transparency in granting citizenship, adding that the committee viewed the exercise as a test of its own credibility.
“Our promise stands. Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, we will continue working toward making Nigeria a prosperous nation and a destination of choice for people around the world,” he stated.
