The Federal Government has directed the Nigeria Immigration Service to withdraw or deactivate passports belonging to individuals who have formally renounced their Nigerian citizenship.
The directive was issued by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who explained that it applies strictly to persons whose renunciation of citizenship has already been approved by the President.
According to him, some individuals who have officially renounced their Nigerian citizenship are still in possession of Nigerian passports, which is no longer legally permitted. He clarified that once citizenship is renounced and approved, the individual ceases to be a Nigerian citizen and is therefore not entitled to hold Nigerian travel documents.
In a statement signed by his media adviser, Alao Babatunde, the minister referenced the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, particularly Section 29, which outlines the process for renunciation of citizenship and states that such renunciation takes effect upon registration and approval.
He further stated that once citizenship is formally withdrawn, affected individuals lose the right to hold any sovereign Nigerian documents, including passports.
“This directive aligns with ongoing passport and visa reforms aimed at strengthening border security and identity management,” the minister noted.
He added that the government will continue to enhance systems designed to secure Nigeria’s borders, prevent identity fraud, preserve the integrity of citizenship, and ensure legitimate travel while blocking unauthorized access.
