In line with the ever evolving environment of digital governance, the Ministry of Interior in Nigeria proudly unveils the eCITIBIZ portal, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at revolutionizing the process of acquiring citizenship services. The eCITIBIZ platform, with its dedication to efficiency, openness, and accessibility, represents a major advancement in the facilitation of citizenship-related operations for foreign nationals wishing to join our dynamic community as well as Nigerian citizens.

Facilitating Citizenship Services

The eCITIBIZ portal offers a comprehensive array of services tailored to meet the diverse needs of individuals navigating the citizenship process in Nigeria. These services include:

1. Issuing of Citizenship by Naturalization: Section 27 of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (As Amended) Constitution states that foreign nationals who have lived in Nigeria for 15 years or more may now easily apply for Nigerian citizenship through this service.

2. Issuing of Citizenship by Registration: Individuals born outside Nigeria whose grandparent is a Nigerian citizen, as well as foreign spouses of Nigerian citizens, can avail themselves of this service under the relevant constitutional provisions.

3. Special Immigrant Status: Foreign nationals married to Nigerians for a minimum of five years or more can obtain special immigrant status, facilitating their integration into Nigerian society.

4. Temporary Residence Permit: Foreign nationals seeking temporary residency in Nigeria can now obtain permits through a streamlined process via the eCITIBIZ portal.

5. Renunciation of Nigerian Citizenship: Citizens desiring to renounce their Nigerian citizenship in favor of another country can initiate the process conveniently through this service.

6. Confirmation of Marriage Certificate Issued by Local Government: Couples married outside the provisions of the Marriage Act (2004) can obtain federal marriage certificates of confirmation in accordance with Nigerian laws.

7. Attestation of Marital Status: Individuals can obtain official declarations of their marital status, whether single, married, widowed, or divorced, with ease through this service.

8. Citizenship By Investment: Foreign nationals with substantial capital investment interests in Nigeria can explore the opportunity of permanent residency through this avenue, contributing to the growth and development of our nation.

Benefits of the eCITIBIZ Portal

The introduction of the eCITIBIZ portal brings forth a multitude of benefits, both for applicants and government stakeholders alike. Some of these advantages include:

• Efficiency: By digitizing and centralizing citizenship services, the eCITIBIZ portal eliminates bureaucratic bottlenecks, reducing processing times and enhancing overall efficiency.

• Accessibility: Citizens and foreign nationals can now access citizenship services from anywhere with an internet connection, fostering inclusivity and accessibility for all.

• Transparency: The portal promotes transparency by providing applicants with real-time updates on the status of their applications, ensuring accountability and trust in the process.

• Cost-effectiveness: The streamlined processes offered by the eCITIBIZ portal translate into cost savings for both applicants and the government, optimizing resource utilization.

Final Thoughts

The launch of the eCITIBIZ portal by the Ministry of Interior represents a significant milestone in the modernization of citizenship services in Nigeria Through the utilization of technology, we are dedicated to streamlining processes, improving user experience, and maintaining the values of effectiveness and openness. We invite both foreign nationals and citizens to take use of this innovative platform for all their citizenship-related requirements as we together strive to create a more stronger and inclusive Nigeria for future generations.