FG Reviews 170 Citizenship Requests As Tunji-Ojo Insists On Integrity, Tightens Screening
By ANITA KNIGHT
The Federal Government has commenced the screening of 170 foreign nationals seeking to become Nigerian citizens, with only those of “strong character and impeccable integrity” expected to qualify.
Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made this known in Abuja after presiding over a meeting of the Citizenship Advisory Committee, which reviews all citizenship applications before forwarding recommendations to President Bola Tinubu for approval.
Tunji-Ojo stressed that Nigerian citizenship must be earned through merit and integrity, describing it as a privilege, not a right.
“Anyone who holds the citizenship of our great country must reflect the true values of Nigeria — integrity, discipline, and respect for our national identity,” he said.
The minister noted that the screening process would be rigorous, involving representatives from the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Ministry of Justice, and Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
He added that the Tinubu administration aims to strengthen national identity while making Nigeria a destination of choice for global talent and investment.
“We are building a nation that inspires pride and trust, not just among citizens but in the eyes of the world,” he said.
Meanwhile, 153 Nigerian returnees from Chad have arrived in Lagos under the Assisted Voluntary Return Programme facilitated by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) in collaboration with the Federal Government.
According to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the returnees arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport on October 27, 2025, aboard an ASKY Airlines flight.
The group comprised 105 adults (63 males and 42 females), 45 children (25 males and 20 females), and three infants. The NIS profiled and documented them for reintegration, while NEMA provided food, medical care, counselling, and logistics support.
NEMA reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the safe, humane return and reintegration of all Nigerians displaced or stranded abroad.
