Nigeria to cancel passports of citizens who renounce nationality
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has ordered the Nigeria Immigration Service to withdraw and deactivate passports from individuals who have officially renounced their Nigerian citizenship. The directive applies to those whose renunciation requests have been formally approved by the President. According to Tunji-Ojo, this move is based on constitutional provisions and aims to uphold the integrity of Nigerian citizenship. The ministry says the action is part of broader reforms to strengthen border security and prevent identity fraud.
What we know
- Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo instructed the immediate withdrawal and deactivation of passports from former citizens.
- The directive targets Nigerians whose renunciation has been formally approved by the President.
- The ministry cites Section 29(1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution as the legal basis for this action.
- Once a person ceases to be a citizen, they are no longer entitled to hold Nigerian sovereign documents, including passports.
- The move is part of ongoing efforts to reform passport and visa processes and prevent unauthorized access.
