A total sum of 268 foreign nationals yesterday took the Oath of Allegiance adopting Nigerian citizenship.
They included four Americans, 14 Britons, and 86 Lebanese.
The ceremony was presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Interior Minister Rauf Aregbesola told State House correspondents that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) had, on February 9, 2022, approved a list of 286 foreigners seeking Nigerian citizenship.
“You have pledged your allegiance to Nigeria. When you give your love and loyalty to Nigeria, she returns her love and loyalty to you,” the President told the new citizens.
President Buhari explained that out of the 286 foreign nationals presented with certificates of Nigerian citizenship, 208 got certificates for naturalization, while 78 got certificates by registration.
He urged the new citizens to make positive and useful contributions to the advancement, progress, and well-being of the different communities they reside.
To them, President Buhari said: “You are expected to abide by the ideals and institutions of the Nigerian national flag, anthem, pledge, and respect for all constituted authorities.”
