FG Screens 170 Foreigners Applying for Nigerian Citizenship

At least 170 foreigners have applied for Nigerian citizenship, as the Federal Government intensifies its vetting process to ensure that only credible and law-abiding individuals are granted Nationality.

The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, revealed this on Tuesday in Abuja during a briefing ahead of the next meeting of the Federal Executive Council Committee on Citizenship.

He emphasized that the government remains committed to preserving the integrity of Nigeria’s citizenship process.

According to the Minister, the applicants include individuals seeking citizenship by naturalization and registration, many of whom have lived in Nigeria for decades, married Nigerians, or made notable economic and social contributions to the Nation.

“We must protect the sanctity of Nigerian citizenship. Every applicant will be thoroughly screened to ensure they meet the standards of good conduct and loyalty to our country,” Tunji-Ojo stated.

He noted that each application is being jointly reviewed by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to verify the authenticity of the applicants’ backgrounds before any recommendation reaches President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for final approval.

Tunji-Ojo further disclosed that the Ministry had strengthened its procedures and adopted new technology-based measures to curb exploitation of the citizenship process and enhance transparency.

Nigeria remains a destination of interest for many foreigners due to its growing economy, vibrant culture, and strategic influence across Africa.

However, the Government insists that the new measures will ensure citizenship is reserved for individuals of proven integrity and genuine commitment to the Nation.