The Federal Government has directed the Nigeria Immigration Service to withdraw and deactivate passports belonging to individuals who have formally renounced their Nigerian citizenship.
The directive was issued by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and conveyed in a statement released on Saturday by his media aide, Alao Babatunde.
According to the minister, the decision applies to individuals whose renunciation of citizenship has been formally approved by the President, effectively terminating their legal status as Nigerians.
He stated that the move is backed by provisions of the 1999 Constitution, which outlines the legal process and implications of renouncing citizenship.
Legal basis
Citing Section 29(1) and (2) of the Constitution, the minister noted that once a declaration of renunciation is registered, the individual ceases to be a Nigerian citizen.
As a result, such persons are no longer entitled to hold sovereign documents issued by the country, including international passports.
He emphasised that retaining such documents after renunciation creates legal and identity inconsistencies.
Policy objective
Mr Tunji-Ojo explained that the directive is part of broader reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s passport and visa systems.
He said the policy seeks to close loopholes that previously allowed former citizens to continue using Nigerian passports after losing their citizenship.
Security implications
The minister added that the move will enhance border security, curb identity fraud, and ensure that only eligible individuals have access to Nigerian travel documents.
“We will continue to strengthen systems that secure Nigeria’s borders, prevent identity fraud, preserve the sanctity of Nigerian citizenship, and facilitate legitimate travel,” he said.
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