Nigeria mulls granting citizenship to C’bean nationals with ancestral ties
Nigeria is considering granting citizenship to persons in the Caribbean, including Guyana, who can prove they have ancestry ties with the country.
This was revealed by Nigerian officials during engagements with Guyanese Dr. Astell Collins, in his capacity as the Diplomatic Administrator for the African Diaspora Union (AFRIDU).
Dr. Collins, who has since returned home, was a delegate representing the Caribbean region in a team headed by Dr. Andre McClerkin, to Nigeria.
Dr Collins during his presentation
According to a statement from AFRIDU, Dr. Collins engaged in pivotal discussions with Nigerian leaders, including His Eminence-King Alfred Diete-Spiff, His Excellency Senator George Akume (Secretary to the Government of Nigeria), and Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa (Chairman/C.E.O. of the Nigerian Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM).
The trip, aimed at strengthening ties between the African Diaspora and Nigeria, was marked by a series of productive meetings and collaborative initiatives.
“This mission has been an extraordinary opportunity to deepen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the African Diaspora and Nigeria. Our discussions explored economic opportunities, mutual growth, cultural appreciation, and the importance of inclusivity and civility in our communities. Moreover, our meetings with the government officials signaled their willingness to explore the legal framework and constitutional considerations necessary for the issuance of citizenship for Africans in the diaspora,” Dr. Collins revealed.
Speaking with the Guyana Times, he clarified that there will be a follow-up meeting with stakeholders later in the year to further discuss the issue of granting citizenship to persons outside of Nigeria.
Dr Astell Collins and others at the event
Should this initiative be greenlighted, Dr. Collins stressed that Guyanese stand to benefit.
“This will allow Africans in the diaspora including Guyanese and Caribbean nationals to be able to access the benefits of being a citizen of Nigeria,” he explained.
Meanwhile, discussions were also centered on the need for more economic partnerships, with a focus on fostering entrepreneurship and investment opportunities between the regions.
Dr. Collins concluded, “The relationships we have built and the initiatives we have planned are a testament to the power of unity and collaboration. I am excited about the future and the positive impact these partnerships will have on our communities.”
This mission to Nigeria represents a significant step forward in the efforts to strengthen the global African diaspora network, the statement from AFRIDU added.
