How to Gain Citizenship in Nigeria

Nigeria is a country located in West Africa with a population of over 200 million people. It is one of the most populous countries in the world and has a rich culture and history. Many people from different parts of the world are attracted to Nigeria due to its vibrant economy, diverse culture, and friendly people. If you are one of those people who wants to become a Nigerian citizen, then this article is for you. In this article, we will discuss how to gain citizenship in Nigeria.

What is Nigerian Citizenship?

Nigerian citizenship is the status of belonging to Nigeria. It is the legal right to enjoy all the benefits and privileges that come with being a Nigerian citizen. Nigerian citizens have the right to vote, own property, work, and live in Nigeria without any restrictions.

Types of Nigerian Citizenship

There are three types of Nigerian citizenship:

Citizenship by Birth

Citizenship by birth is acquired if you are born in Nigeria or if at least one of your parents is a Nigerian citizen. If you were born in Nigeria and your parents are not Nigerian citizens, you can still acquire Nigerian citizenship if you have lived in Nigeria for at least ten years.

Citizenship by Registration

Citizenship by registration is acquired if you are a foreigner who has been legally resident in Nigeria for at least fifteen years. You can also acquire Nigerian citizenship by registration if you are married to a Nigerian citizen and have been living in Nigeria for at least seven years.

Citizenship by Naturalization

Citizenship by naturalization is acquired if you are a foreigner who has been legally resident in Nigeria for at least twenty years. You can also acquire Nigerian citizenship by naturalization if you are a foreigner married to a Nigerian citizen and have been living in Nigeria for at least ten years.

How to Apply for Nigerian Citizenship

To apply for Nigerian citizenship, you need to follow these steps:

Step 1: Obtain a Residence Permit

Before you can apply for Nigerian citizenship, you must have a residence permit. A residence permit is a document that allows you to legally live and work in Nigeria. You can obtain a residence permit by visiting the Nigerian Immigration Service office in your state of residence.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

To apply for Nigerian citizenship, you will need to gather the following documents:

• Birth certificate
• Valid passport
• Certificate of naturalization (if applicable)
• Police clearance certificate
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Educational qualification certificates
• Proof of residence
• Any other document that may be required by the Nigerian government

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Once you have gathered all the required documents, you can submit your application for Nigerian citizenship to the Nigerian Immigration Service office in your state of residence. You will be required to pay a processing fee for your application.

Step 4: Attend an Interview

After submitting your application, you will be invited for an interview. The interview will be conducted by the Nigerian Immigration Service to assess your eligibility for Nigerian citizenship. You will be required to answer questions about your background, reasons for wanting to become a Nigerian citizen, and any other relevant information.

Step 5: Wait for Approval

After the interview, you will need to wait for approval from the Nigerian government. The processing time for Nigerian citizenship applications varies, but it can take several months to a year.

Benefits of Nigerian Citizenship

There are several benefits of Nigerian citizenship, including:

• The right to vote
• The right to own property
• The right to work and live in Nigeria without restrictions
• Access to government services and benefits
• The ability to travel on a Nigerian passport

Conclusion

Acquiring Nigerian citizenship is a process that requires patience, time, and effort. However, it is a worthwhile endeavor as it provides you with numerous benefits and opportunities. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can begin your journey towards becoming a Nigerian citizen.

FAQs

1. Can I apply for Nigerian citizenship if I am married to a Nigerian citizen but do not live in Nigeria?

   • No, you must be living in Nigeria for at least seven years before you can apply for Nigerian citizenship by registration.

2. How long does it take to acquire Nigerian citizenship?

   • It varies, but it can take several months to a year to process Nigerian citizenship applications.

3. Can I apply for Nigerian citizenship if I have a criminal record?

   • It depends on the severity of the offense. The Nigerian government may deny your application if you have committed a serious crime.

4. Do I need to renounce my current citizenship to acquire Nigerian citizenship?

   • No, Nigeria allows dual citizenship.

5. What are the requirements for Nigerian citizenship by naturalization?

   • You must have been legally resident in Nigeria for at least twenty years or ten years if you are married to a Nigerian citizen.