Nigeria Orders Withdrawal of Passports for Renounced Citizens

On a directive from the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Nigeria Immigration Service is to immediately withdraw and deactivate the passports of citizens who have formally renounced their Nigerian citizenship. This action is in accordance with the provisions of subsection 1 and 2 of Section 29 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which states that a person who renounces Nigerian citizenship ceases to be a citizen and can no longer carry sovereign documents, including the national passport.

The minister highlighted that this move is part of broader passport and visa reforms aimed at preserving the sanctity of Nigerian citizenship and facilitating legitimate travel while preventing unauthorized access and identity fraud. The Nigeria Immigration Service is expected to act swiftly on this directive, which is part of the government's efforts to enhance national security and ensure compliance with citizenship laws.