The Federal Government has ordered the withdrawal of Nigerian passports from individuals who have formally renounced their citizenship.
The directive was issued by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and communicated to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).
According to the minister, once a renunciation of citizenship is approved by the president and officially registered, the individual ceases to be a Nigerian citizen and therefore cannot retain Nigerian travel documents.
The directive is based on provisions of the 1999 Constitution governing citizenship renunciation and related legal procedures.
Tunji-Ojo said the move forms part of broader reforms aimed at strengthening the integrity of Nigeria’s passport system and preventing identity fraud.
“We will continue to strengthen systems that secure Nigeria’s borders, preserve the sanctity of citizenship, and prevent unauthorized access to Nigerian travel documents,” the minister said.
While the government argues that the policy reinforces legal standards, critics say authorities should also focus on addressing the underlying reasons many Nigerians seek foreign citizenship, including economic hardship, insecurity and limited opportunities at home.
