JUST IN: FG Orders Withdrawal of Passports from Nigerians Who Renounce Citizenship
The Federal Government of Nigeria has directed the withdrawal of international passports from citizens who formally renounce their Nigerian nationality, in a move aimed at tightening compliance with citizenship laws.
Policy Directive Announced
Authorities stated that individuals who voluntarily give up their Nigerian citizenship will no longer be entitled to retain Nigerian passports, as the document remains an official identification reserved strictly for citizens.
The directive is expected to be implemented by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), which is responsible for issuing and managing travel documents.
Legal Backing
Officials noted that the move is consistent with provisions of Nigerian law governing nationality and travel documentation. Once citizenship is renounced and duly processed, such individuals are expected to surrender all national identification instruments, including passports.
Implications for Affected Individuals
The policy means that Nigerians who acquire foreign citizenship and formally renounce their Nigerian status will:
- Lose the right to hold a Nigerian passport
- Be required to use travel documents issued by their new country
- No longer enjoy privileges tied to Nigerian citizenship
Reactions and Concerns
The development has sparked reactions among legal experts and members of the public, particularly regarding its implications for dual citizenship and migration trends.
While some analysts support the move as a necessary step to maintain the integrity of national identity systems, others have called for clarity on how the policy will affect Nigerians in the diaspora.
Enforcement and Compliance
The NIS is expected to roll out guidelines to ensure smooth implementation, including procedures for passport surrender and verification of citizenship status.
Authorities have also warned that failure to comply with the directive could attract legal consequences.
What Lies Ahead
Observers say the policy underscores the government’s efforts to streamline identity management and align with global standards on citizenship documentation.
As implementation begins, attention will be on how effectively the directive is enforced and its broader impact on Nigerians abroad and migration policies in Nigeria.
Source: The Nation