The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has revealed that a total of 170 foreign nationals have applied for Nigerian citizenship.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo disclosed this 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 and not a right, stressed that every application must undergo rigorous scrutiny to ensure that only individuals of proven integrity, sound character, and lawful conduct are considered.
“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,” the Minister stated.
The Minister reiterated the commitment of his Ministry to uphold the sanctity of legal migration processes, warned that attempts to obtain Nigerian citizenship or naturalization through illegal or fraudulent means would be met with stiff penalties.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo linked the exercise to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, noted that the ACNC’s work aligned with the administration’s focus on national integrity, internal security, and prosperity.
“Citizenship cannot and will not be granted to individuals who pose potential security threats. The committee must diligently safeguard the trust reposed in it and ensure that only deserving applicants are approved,” he said.
He further described Nigeria as “the greatest asset to its citizens,” called on all stakeholders to remain committed to protecting the nation’s integrity and global reputation.
Members of the Advisory Committee on Nigerian Citizenship included the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior; representatives from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Justice; the State Security Service (SSS), the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS); and Directors of Citizenship, Business, and Legal Services of the Ministry of Interior.
