Tunji-Ojo Directs Immigration to Revoke Passports After Citizenship Renunciation

The Federal Government has directed the immediate withdrawal and deactivation of Nigerian passports held by individuals who have officially renounced their citizenship, as part of efforts to strengthen national identity and border security systems.

The directive was issued by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and targets Nigerians whose renunciation of citizenship has been duly approved in accordance with constitutional provisions.
According to the Ministry, the action is based on Sections 29(1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution, which grant Nigerians of full age the right to voluntarily renounce their citizenship, subject to presidential approval.
Once such approval is granted, the individual ceases to be a Nigerian citizen and is no longer entitled to possess or use Nigerian sovereign documents, including international passports.
Immigration Service to enforce compliance
Tunji-Ojo has directed the Nigeria Immigration Service to immediately withdraw and deactivate all affected passports, emphasizing that continued use of such documents after renunciation compromises the integrity of Nigeria’s identity system.
He explained that the measure is part of broader reforms aimed at improving passport administration, enhancing data management, and curbing identity fraud.
The Minister further noted that the policy ensures that only eligible citizens retain access to Nigerian travel documents.
Part of broader security reforms
The Interior Ministry stated that the move aligns with ongoing efforts to modernize Nigeria’s immigration and identity management systems, especially amid rising concerns over document misuse and irregular migration.
Officials added that stricter enforcement of citizenship status is necessary to safeguard the credibility of Nigeria’s passport and strengthen border control operations.
Legal framework for renunciation
Under Nigerian law, renunciation of citizenship becomes effective only after a formal declaration and presidential approval, after which the individual forfeits all rights associated with citizenship.
Authorities said the directive is intended to ensure full compliance with this legal provision while closing loopholes that may allow former citizens to unlawfully retain or use Nigerian identity documents.
Further administrative guidelines are expected to facilitate smooth implementation across immigration commands and ensure proper synchronization of databases.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing national security while preserving the integrity of Nigeria’s citizenship and travel documentation systems.