1. My fellow Nigerians, it is with great joy and pride that I invite you to join me today, to welcome citizens from other corners of the world over into the Nigerian family.
2. No matter where you come from, or what faith you practice, this country is now your country. Our history is now your history, and our traditions are now your traditions. Nigeria is your home and pride and joy.
3. You have pledged your allegiance to Nigeria. When you give your love and loyalty to Nigeria, she returns her love and loyalty to you.
4. Together, we are a nation united by the principles of opportunity, equality, and liberty that are enshrined in our constitution.
5. In line with our transformational ideals of strict adherence to due process and transparent procedures, the Ministry of Interior ensured that only deserving persons were recommended to the Federal Executive Council to be conferred with Nigerian citizenship.
6. The ACNC made its recommendation to the Federal Executive Council (FEC), which graciously granted approval to 286 awardees.
7. This approval is in line with the provisions of the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Chapter III Section 26 and 27.
8. It is significant to note that the Federal Government in 2020 adopted the National Action Plan to eradicate statelessness. Accordingly, The Honourable Minister of Interior inaugurated the High-level Steering Committee to Eradicate Statelessness in Nigeria by 2024.
9. This ceremony therefore today, is a further demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment and determination to remove as many people as possible from statelessness.
10. In this regard, I will like to reiterate our commitment to the strategic role Nigeria plays in the comity of nations, in its unwavering quest for greater human integration, towards ensuring peace and prosperity.
11. Today marks a historic event for Nigeria and her people. 286 foreign nationals will be presented with certificates of Nigerian Citizenship. Out of this number, 208 will be given certificates for Naturalization, while 78 will be given certificates by Registration.
12. I therefore enjoin all the awardees, to be good citizens of Nigeria, to enjoy all the rights and privileges bestowed upon you within the confines of the law.
13. I urge you to make positive and useful contributions to the advancement, progress and well-being of the different communities you reside in.
14. I further urge that you be in accord with our national ethics and code of conduct as citizens of Nigeria. You are expected to abide by the Ideals and Institution of the Nigerian National Flag, Anthem, Pledge and respect for all Constituted Authorities.
15. All those concerned with Immigration matters are to offer our new citizens quick legal identification. Also, their Local Governments should assist with their integration in the local community to enable them enjoy all the entitlements of a Nigerian citizen.
“IN EXERCISE OF THE CONSTITUTIONAL POWERS CONFERED ON ME, BY CHAPTER III SECTIONS 25-31 OF CONSTITUTION OF FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA, 1999 (AS AMENDED), I HEREBY CONFER ON ALL OF YOU, THE CITIZENSHIP OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA.”
16. Once again, I congratulate and welcome all of you to the Nigerian family, and I wish you all the best
17.God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
