•Interior minister, Tunji-Ojo
The federal government is processing 170 applications from individuals across the world who applied to become Nigerian citizens.
The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, disclosed this in Abuja during a review meeting of Advisory Committee on Nigerian Citizenship, (ACNC).
Tunji-Ojo, who chairs the Committee, described Nigerian Citizenship as a privilege that must be earned by people of proven integrity and character, reports The Nation.
He said the applications would be thoroughly scrutinised by the Committee before it is taken to Mr President for approval.
He charged members of the committee to diligently vet every application and ensure that only individuals of proven integrity and good character are 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,” the Minister said.
Tunji-Ojo further stressed that legal migration must be respected, noting that his administration will not tolerate any attempt to obtain Nigerian citizenship or naturalization through illegal means.
Reaffirming President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the minister highlighted the committee’s work directly supports the government’s vision of national integrity, security, and prosperity.
He added that citizenship cannot be granted to individuals who pose potential security threats, urging members of the committee to uphold the trust placed in them and ensure that only the most deserving applicants are approved
“Nigeria remains the greatest asset to its citizens, ”Tunji-Ojo said, calling on all stakeholders to safeguard the nation’s integrity and greatness.
A statement from Deputy Director of Press in the Ministry, Madam Mary Ali, later confirmed membership of the Advisory Committee on Nigerian Citizenship as the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior; representatives of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Justice; representatives of the State Security Service (SSS) and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS); as well as the Directors of Citizenship and Business and Legal Services of the Ministry of Interior.
