‘Many desire it’ — diaspora group asks Tinubu to grant Nigerian citizenship to black foreigners

The African Diaspora Union (AFRIDU) has urged President Bola Tinubu to grant Nigerian citizenship to black foreigners.

Chidiebere Ogbu, the president of AFRIDU, spoke in Abuja on Monday while disclosing plans to hold an inaugural gathering in honour of Africans abroad.

Ogbu said the event, scheduled to be held between October 17 and 27 in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city, will celebrate the African heritage, culture, and contributions of black people worldwide.

The event is part of the African Union’s initiative to recognise the diaspora as the sixth region of Africa.

He said the opportunity for Nigeria to host the gathering is timely, noting that many Africans across the world have expressed interest in becoming citizens.

“Please do not despise Nigeria’s passport. Many black people around the world desire it,” Ogbu said.

“If our president is magnanimous enough to grant citizenship to these individuals, we will witness a new consciousness and movement regarding Nigeria in America, South America, and the Caribbean.”

Ogbu said granting citizenship waivers would not only honour the historical ties of African descendants but also foster a sense of belonging and identity.

The AFRIDU president added that the upcoming gathering will acknowledge historical injustices faced by African descendants.

“This gathering is not just a celebration; it’s a pivotal moment for all Africans in the diaspora to reconnect with their roots and reclaim their rights,” he said.

“We must recognise the struggles of our ancestors who were forcibly taken from their homeland.

“This event aims to address those historical wrongs through reparative justice and citizenship waivers for those who identify as Nigerians.”

Ogbu expressed hope that the gathering would usher in a wave of African emigrant experts, investors, and professionals back to Nigeria.