BY NATURALIZATION
Welcome to another enlightening session o Knowledge Tent! We hope you have been walking in the Knowledge of your rights! Let’s dive into today’s discussion
In Nigeria, where one cannot acquire Citizenship by Birth or by Registration, one can apply to be a citizen by Naturalization.
Subject to the provision of Section 28 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, a person who so desires to be a citizen of Nigeria can apply to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for a certificate of citizenship by Naturalization. In order for the Certificate of Naturalization to be granted there are certain conditions that must be fulfilled by the individual who desires to acquire such a certificate.
The individual concerned must:
- Be of full age and capacity ( 18 years and above ).
- Must have good character.
- Must have shown a clear intention to be domiciled in Nigeria
- In the opinion of the Governor of the State he chooses to reside in, be acceptable by the local community in which he chooses to permanently dwell and has adapted their culture.
- Be a person who has made or is capable of making contribution for the growth and progress of the country.
- Has taken the Oath of Allegiance swearing loyalty and patriotism to Nigeria.
- Have lived in Nigeria for a continuous period of 15 years before applying for the Certificate of Naturalization or the individual concerned must have lived in Nigeria for a continuous period of twelve (12) months and in addition to this, in the space of twenty (20) years, he/she must have lived in Nigeria for a total period of fifteen (15) years.
These are the constitutional laid down conditions for one to be granted the Certificate of Naturalization and this certificate is not limited to any category of persons except as provided for in Section 28 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Thank you for joining us once again today! It is our hope that you share the Knowledge acquired here!
Until next time
Writer and Editor: Esther Ude
