By Francis Wilfred, Abuja
The Federal Government of Nigeria has received 170 applications for citizenship from individuals across various countries, according to the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo made the disclosure in Abuja during a recent meeting of the Advisory Committee on Nigerian Citizenship (ACNC), which he chairs. He emphasized that Nigerian citizenship is a privilege, not a right, and must be earned through integrity and lawful means.
In a statement signed by the Assistant Director of Press and Public Relations, Mary Ali, the Minister urged committee members to ensure a rigorous screening process for all applicants. He stressed that only individuals of proven integrity and good moral standing should be considered worthy of Nigerian citizenship.
“Anyone who holds the citizenship of our great country must be a person of strong character and impeccable integrity, reflecting the true values of Nigeria,” Dr. Tunji-Ojo stated.
The Minister warned against illegal means of acquiring Nigerian citizenship, reiterating that legal migration must be upheld in line with national security objectives. He reaffirmed that the ministry will not condone any attempt to undermine the citizenship process.
Reinforcing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Dr. Tunji-Ojo said the committee’s work aligns with the administration’s vision of promoting national integrity, security, and prosperity. He added that citizenship will not be granted to individuals who pose any potential security threats to the nation.
“Nigeria remains the greatest asset to its citizens,” the Minister said, calling on all stakeholders to protect the nation’s integrity and uphold its global reputation.
Members of the Advisory Committee on Nigerian Citizenship include the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior; representatives from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Justice; officials from the State Security Service (SSS) and Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS); as well as the Directors of Citizenship, and Business and Legal Services of the Ministry of Interior.
