The presidential and national assembly elections are now over and the public mood isn’t “giving” due to the election being marred by intimidation, harassment, suppression, and vote buying.
We’re already hearing rumours that some of you might japa because what INEC promised was different from what it delivered.
While we’ll be sad to see you go, we must remind you that taking up citizenship in another country has pros and cons. Here, we look at dual citizenship and what it could mean for you.
What is dual citizenship?
Dual citizenship refers to the state of being a citizen of two countries simultaneously in line with the laws of those two countries. So, suppose your japa country of choice is somewhere in Europe (no names so you don’t get any ideas). You could concurrently be a citizen of both countries if you meet their requirements.
Does Nigeria allow dual citizenship?
Yes. Nigeria is one of 64 countries that allow dual citizenship, so hurray for your japa plans. But the condition for holding dual citizenship is that you must have acquired it by birth. Section 28 of the Nigerian Constitution says that only those who are Nigerian citizens by birth can afford to hold dual citizenship. Otherwise, you must forfeit your Nigerian citizenship to get another one.
We already wrote about the types of citizenship in Nigeria and how to acquire them. There’s a good chance that you’re a Nigerian citizen if you’re reading this, but if you aren’t sure, read up on it here.
What are the pros of dual citizenship?
Security
Do you know how they say two heads are better than one? Well, having dual citizenship and, in essence, two passports is better than having just one. There’s the security of knowing that if a fire is burning in one country you’re a citizen of, you can always japa to your backup country.
Property rights
Many countries allow dual citizens to hold property rights along with the benefits that come with them. Who no want better thing?
Exposure
New culture, new friends, new food and new experiences. What’s not to like about having dual citizenship?
Work permits
People that have had to apply for work visas know how complicated the process can be. The right to work in another country without restrictions is a benefit that comes to citizens. Imagine having those rights in two countries of your choosing: more money and double blessings.
What are the cons of dual citizenship?
Double taxes
Benjamin Franklin, the guy on the $100 bill, famously said, “In this world, nothing is certain except death and taxes.” My dear, you must pay taxes in those two countries if you decide to hold dual citizenship — everything na double double, including blessings and responsibilities.
Complications with running for public office
Anyone with a primary citizenship that isn’t Nigerian has to let go of it before they can run for public office. Basically, if you plan to acquire your Nigerian citizenship by naturalisation or registration, you automatically lose your claim to dual citizenship. However, if you are a citizen of Nigeria by birth and you acquire a citizenship of another country, you’re still eligible to run for office.
The procedure can be stressful
Just because you plan to acquire dual citizenship doesn’t mean it’ll be a straightforward process. In some instances, the country you want to apply to for a second citizenship might have restrictions.
For example, citizens of all countries can apply for Turkish citizenship by investment. However, the process involves opening a bank account in the country and/or buying real property there. If you’re from Cuba, Syria, Armenia, North Korea and Nigeria, you’ll find out that the process can be “highly problematic.”
There you have it. Now you know what dual citizenship is and what to expect if you acquire it.
