Expert mulls simplified permanent residency for Nigerians in diaspora

Worried by the harrowing experiences and bitter tales being expressed by Nigerians living abroad, especially those processing permanent residency permits, Prince Olugbenga Faborode and Martins Omotoso have called on the authorities to simplify the process.

In a statement obtained by The Nation, the duo, who reside in the UK and Spain, emphasised that making the process more accessible would strengthen Nigeria’s bilateral relationship as well offer measurable benefits to the Nigerian economy.

“Including anyone who wishes to hold on to their residence in Nigeria, whether domiciled or seeking permanent residence status, this measure is essential,” they said.

They highlighted that millions of Nigerians around the world contribute substantially to foreign economies through skills, taxes, investments, and innovation, while remaining deeply committed to Nigeria’s development through remittances, property ownership, business investments, philanthropy, and skills transfer.

However, they noted that some Nigerians are compelled—by the citizenship laws of their adopted countries to renounce their Nigerian passports to secure stability and legal protection for themselves and their families.

This decision, while often unavoidable, has weakened formal ties with Nigeria despite continued cultural, emotional, and economic connections.

“We humbly propose the creation of a Simplified Permanent Residence Permit for Nigerians in the Diaspora who have lost Nigerian citizenship due to foreign naturalisation. Proof of Nigerian origin—such as a Nigerian birth certificate, National Population Commission records, or verifiable family lineage—should serve as sufficient basis for eligibility. This permit would restore legal residency rights without conflicting with Nigeria’s constitution.”

According to the proposal, the permit also covers dependents, with children included under their parents’ permit until age 24.

“Applications may be structured with asset-based requirements such as joint applicants (spouses) with assets or investments in Nigeria valued at ₦40 million or above, just as single adult applicants with assets or investments in Nigeria valued at ₦30 million or above.”

The continued validity of the domiciled residence permit should be contingent on annual tax compliance on declared assets or investments, they noted, adding that added evidence of up-to-date tax payments issued by relevant federal or state authorities should serve as a key validation for renewals.

The duo also suggested the establishment of a streamlined digital platform, modeled after systems in the United Kingdom and other advanced jurisdictions, allowing permit holders to manage renewals, upload tax compliance documents, update personal information, and confirm residency status online—reducing administrative bottlenecks and improving transparency.

According to the co-authors, introducing this simplified permanent residence permit, reinforced by tax compliance requirements, would demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to diaspora engagement, economic inclusion, and fiscal responsibility, reassuring Nigerians abroad that they remain valued stakeholders in the nation’s future.

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