FG to seize passports of Nigerians who renounce citizenship

The Federal Government has ordered the withdrawal and deactivation of Nigerian passports belonging to citizens who have formally renounced their nationality, tightening rules around identity and travel documentation.

The directive was issued by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who instructed the Nigeria Immigration Service to immediately act on all cases where renunciation has been officially approved.

According to a statement from the ministry, the move affects Nigerians whose applications to give up their citizenship have been duly processed and registered by the President, in line with constitutional provisions.

The government said the decision is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the integrity of Nigeria’s citizenship system and prevent misuse of official travel documents.

Tunji-Ojo explained that once an individual ceases to be a Nigerian citizen, they are no longer entitled to hold any sovereign document issued by the country, including a passport. He added that allowing former citizens to retain such documents creates loopholes that could be exploited for identity fraud or unauthorised travel.

The directive, therefore, aims to close that gap and ensure that Nigeria’s travel documents are used strictly by eligible citizens.

Backed by constitutional provisions

The minister said the policy is grounded in Section 29 of the 1999 Constitution, which outlines the legal process for renouncing Nigerian citizenship.

Under the provision, any Nigerian of full age who wishes to renounce their citizenship must make a formal declaration. Once the President registers that declaration, the individual officially ceases to be a citizen of Nigeria.

With that status change, the government maintains that retaining a Nigerian passport becomes legally inconsistent.

Authorities say the latest directive aligns with wider reforms in Nigeria’s passport and visa systems, aimed at improving border security and modernising identity management.

In recent years, the interior ministry has introduced measures to enhance passport processing, tighten verification systems, and reduce irregularities in documentation.

Tunji-Ojo noted that the government remains focused on protecting the sanctity of Nigerian citizenship while also facilitating legitimate travel for those entitled to it.

He added that stronger systems would help prevent abuse, improve national security, and ensure that official documents reflect accurate legal status.

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The move signals a stricter approach to citizenship administration, especially at a time when global mobility and dual nationality issues continue to shape migration patterns involving Nigerians.