Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has directed the Nigeria Immigration Service to immediately withdraw and deactivate passport belonging to individuals who have formally renounced their Nigerian citizenship.
The directive applies strictly to those whose renunciation requests have been officially approved by the President, in line with constitutional provisions.
According to the Minister, once a person ceases to be a Nigerian citizen. They are no longer entitled to hold any sovereign document of the country, including a passport. The move is backed by Section 29(1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution. Which states that citizenship ends once renunciation is formally registered.
Officials say the policy is part of ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s identity management system and ensuring that only eligible citizens have access to official travel documents.
Move Targets Fraud, Strengthens Border Security
The government says the decision is designed to close loopholes that previously allowed former citizens to retain and use Nigerian passports even after renouncing their nationality.
Authorities believe this gap posed risks to national security, including identity fraud and misuse of travel documents. By enforcing stricter controls, the Ministry of Interior aims to preserve the integrity of Nigerian citizenship and improve border security.
The directive also aligns with broader immigration reforms, including efforts to modernize passport systems and enhance monitoring of international travel.
Analysts say the move could have implications for Nigerians in the diaspora who have switched nationality. Reinforcing the legal consequences of renouncing citizenship.
While the policy is expected to strengthen documentation systems. It also signals a stricter approach by the government toward citizenship status and national identity management.
