Buhari confers Nigerian citizenship on 286 foreigners

President Muhammadu Buhari has conferred Nigerian citizenship on 286 foreign nationals.

The conferment of citizenship on beneficiaries from the United States, Europe, the Americas, Asia, Middle East, Oceania and Africa was done Thursday at a ceremony held at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Addressing the new Nigerians, President Buhari urged them to be good citizens of the country to enjoy all the rights and privileges bestowed on them.

He said, “You have pledged your allegiance to Nigeria. When you give your love and loyalty to Nigeria, she returns her love and loyalty to you.”

Buhari said out of the 286 foreign nationals presented with certificates of Nigerian Citizenship, 208 received certificates for naturalisation, while 78 got certificates by registration.

The President urged them to make positive and useful contributions to the advancement, progress and well-being of the different communities they reside, adding that as citizens they must be in accord with the national ethics and code of conduct.

“You are expected to abide by the ideals and institution of the Nigerian National Flag, Anthem, Pledge and respect for all Constituted Authorities.

“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,” he said.

In exercising the constitutional powers conferred on him, by Chapter III Sections 25-31 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the President told the new citizens that Nigeria is a nation united by the principles of opportunity, equality, and liberty as enshrined in the Constitution.

“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,” Buhari added.