The Nigerian House of Representatives is considering a bill that would grant citizenship rights to foreigners married to Nigerian women.
Currently, Nigeria’s constitution allows only foreign women married to Nigerian men to become citizens by registration. The proposed amendment seeks to change this by making the law gender-neutral.
The bill, sponsored by Akin Alabi (APC, Egbeda/Ona Ara Federal Constituency, Oyo State), has passed its second reading in the House. It aims to amend Section 26 of the 1999 Constitution, which covers citizenship by registration.
At present, Section 26(2)(a) states that only a “woman” married to a Nigerian citizen can be granted Nigerian citizenship. The bill proposes replacing “woman” with “person” to allow both men and women equal rights.
For citizenship by registration, applicants must meet certain requirements:
- They must be of good character.
- They must show a clear intention to live in Nigeria.
- They must take the oath of allegiance stated in the Constitution.
If passed, this amendment would correct what many see as a long-standing legal imbalance.
Push for Women, Youth, and PWD Representation
In the same session, the House also debated another bill seeking to create specific seats for women in the National and State Assemblies. Sponsored by Lagos lawmaker Kafilat Ogbara (APC, Kosofe Federal Constituency, Lagos State), the bill aims to improve female political representation in Nigeria.
Additionally, a separate bill sponsored by Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere from Imo State seeks to ensure the inclusion of youths and persons living with disabilities (PWDs) in political appointments.
Both bills passed their second reading and will undergo further legislative review.
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