Electronics and Electrical Engineering Department 1 0f 6

GNS 101(CITIZENSHIP EDUCATION)

CONCEPT OF CITIZENSHIP

OSAMEDE BRIGHT ASIRUWA M23/ ICE/ND/EEED/7351

EZEH ADAMMMA NKIRUKA M.23/ICE/ND/EEED/7336

OHENUSI OSEWAHIEMWEN LIBERTY M23/ ICE/ND/EEED/7337

OVIE JOSHUA EDAFERIOKA M23/ ICE/ND/EEED/7353

OHARISI MICHAEL M.23/ICE/ND/EEED/7335

OKPOTO EDIRIN -M23/ ICE/ND/EEED/7342

ODOH DAVID OGHENE OCHUKO M.23/ICE/ND/EEED/7341

OKUKU MONDAY M.23/ICE/ND/EEED/7345

CHAPTER 1 :
INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY OF CITIZENSHIP.
Citizenship is a rich and complex concept that has evolved significantly over time. Its history can
be traced back to ancient civilizations, where it was often tied to political power, social status,
and membership in a particular community. In this chapter, we will explore the concept of
citizenship, its historical development, and its significance in modern times.

THE HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF CITIZENSHIP:

The ancient Greeks and Romans were among the first to conceptualize citizenship as a legal
and political status. In Greece, citizenship was tied to the concept of polis, or city-state, and was
reserved for those who were born in the city or granted citizenship through military service or
other achievements (Aristotle, 350 BCE). In Rome, citizenship was granted to those who were
born in Rome or granted citizenship through military service, wealth, or other achievements
(Cicero, 50 BCE).

During the Middle Ages, citizenship was largely tied to feudal obligations and loyalty to the
monarch. The concept of citizenship was closely tied to the idea of allegiance and duty to the
king or lord (Bracton, 1250). However, with the rise of cities and trade, a new form of citizenship
emerged, based on residence and participation in urban life (Weber, 1921).

The modern concept of citizenship emerged during the Enlightenment, with the idea of popular
sovereignty and the social contract (Rousseau, 1762). This idea held that citizens were equal
members of a political community, with rights and responsibilities that were not tied to feudal
obligations or loyalty to a monarch.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, citizenship became more inclusive, with the extension of voting
rights and social welfare benefits to larger segments of the population (Marshall, 1950). Today,
citizenship is recognized as a fundamental human right, essential for full participation in society
(United Nations, 1948).

HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF CITIZENSHIP IN NIGERIA:

In Nigeria, the concept of citizenship has evolved over time, reflecting the country's colonial past
and post-independence political developments. Prior to British colonization, Nigeria had various
indigenous forms of citizenship and membership in ethnic groups (Nwabueze, 2013). The British
introduced their own citizenship laws, which privileged British subjects over indigenous
Nigerians.

After independence in 1960, Nigeria adopted a constitution that defined citizenship based on
birth, descent, or naturalization (Nigerian Constitution, 1963). The 1979 Constitution introduced
the concept of "indigenous" Nigerians, prioritizing citizenship for those with ancestral ties to the
country (Nigerian Constitution, 1979). Today, Nigeria's citizenship laws continue to evolve, with
ongoing debates around identity, belonging, and political participation.
 CHAPTER 2
RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF CITIZENS.
Citizenship encompasses various rights and responsibilities that define an individual's
membership in a political community. These rights and responsibilities can be categorized into
civil, political, social, and economic rights.

CIVIL RIGHTS :

- Freedom of speech and expression

- Freedom of religion and conscience
- Right to privacy and personal liberty
- Right to equality and non-discrimination
- Right to life and security of person

POLITICAL RIGHTS :

- Right to 2P and participate in political processes

- Right to stand for public office and hold political positions
- Right to freedom of assembly and association
- Right to freedom of movement and residence

SOCIAL RIGHTS :

- Right to education and access to knowledge

- Right to healthcare and social security
- Right to social welfare and public assistance
- Right to cultural and linguistic identity

ECONOMIC RIGHTS :

- Right to work and fair labor standards

- Right to own property and engage in economic activities
- Right to social security and protection from unemployment
- Right to fair trade and commerce practices

RESPONSIBILITIES OF CITIZENSHIP :

- Obeying the law and respecting the rights of others

- Paying taxes and contributing to the public purse
- Defending the country and upholding its values
- Participating in political processes and exercising the right to vote
- Respecting the environment and natural resources

In Nigeria, the rights and responsibilities of citizenship are enshrined in the Constitution and
various laws. The Constitution guarantees fundamental rights such as freedom of speech,
religion, and assembly, as well as the right to vote and stand for public office. However, the
country still faces challenges in fully realizing these rights, particularly for marginalized groups
such as women, children, and persons with disabilities.

CHAPTER 3:
TYPES OF, ACQUISITION AND LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP.
Citizenship can be classified into different types based on various criteria. The most common
types of citizenship are:

1. JUS SOLI ( CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH ) :

This type of citizenship is acquired by birth within the territory of a country.

2. JUS SAGUINUS ( CITIZENSHIP BY DESCENT ) :

This type of citizenship is acquired through descent from a parent or ancestor who is a citizen of
a country.

3. NATURALIZATION :
This type of citizenship is acquired through a legal process of naturalization, which involves
meeting certain requirements such as residency, language proficiency, and knowledge of the
country's history and laws.

4. DUAL CITIZENSHIP :
This type of citizenship allows an individual to hold citizenship of two or more countries
simultaneously.

5. HONORARY CITIZENSHIP :
This type of citizenship is granted to individuals who have made significant contributions to a
country, but do not meet the usual requirements for citizenship.

ACQUISITION OF CITIZENSHIP.
Citizenship can be acquired through various means, including:

1. BIRTH :
Citizenship is acquired by birth within the territory of a country or through descent from a parent
or ancestor who is a citizen.

2. NATURALIZATION :
Citizenship is acquired through a legal process of naturalization, which involves meeting certain
requirements such as:

• 1. Meet the Eligibility Requirements:

- Be at least 18 years old.
 - Be a permanent resident.
- Have good moral character.
- Pass a language and citizenship test.
• 2. Prepare Your Application:
- Fill out the naturalization application form
- Gather required documents (e.g., passport, birth certificate)
• 3. Submit Your Application:
- Send your application and documents to the relevant authorities
- Pay the application fee.
• 4. Attend a Biometrics Appointment:
- Provide fingerprints and other biometric data.
• 5. Attend an Interview and Test:
- Answer questions about your application and background
- Take a language and citizenship test.
• 6. Take the Oath of Allegiance:
- Swear loyalty to your new country.
• 7. Receive Your Certificate of Naturalization:
- Confirming your status as a citizen.

3. REGISTRATION :
Registration is the process of officially recording a person's citizenship or nationality with the
relevant authorities. Here are the general steps involved in registration:

• Step 1: Determine Eligibility

- Check if you are eligible for registration, typically based on birth, descent, or
naturalization.

• Step 2: Gather Required Documents

- Collect necessary documents, such as:
- Birth certificate
- Passport
- Proof of residency
- Proof of citizenship or nationality (if applicable)

• Step 3: Fill Out the Registration Form

- Obtain and complete the registration form from the relevant authorities or download it
from their website.

• Step 4: Submit the Application

- Submit the completed form and supporting documents to the relevant authorities (e.g.,
a government office or embassy).

• Step 5: Pay the Registration Fee

- Pay the required fee for processing the registration application.
 • Step 6: Attend an Interview (if required)
- In some cases, you may be required to attend an interview with a representative from
the relevant authorities.

• Step 7: Receive a Registration Certificate

- Once your application is approved, you will receive a registration certificate, confirming
your citizenship or nationality.

4. ADOPTION:
Citizenship can also be acquired through adoption by a citizen of a country.

HOW TO BECOME A CITIZEN OF NIGERIA THROUGH REGISTRATION.

To become a citizen of Nigeria through registration, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old.

2. Good character: You must be of good character and have no criminal record.
3. Residency: You must have been resident in Nigeria for at least 15 years preceding the date of
your application.
4. Marriage: You must be married to a citizen of GGNigeria (if applying as a spouse).
5. Grandparents: You must have at least one grandparent who is a citizen of Nigeria (if applying
as a descendant).
6. Renunciation: You must renounce any other citizenship or nationality you may hold, except
for citizenship acquired by birth.
7. Oath of Allegiance: You must take the Oath of Allegiance to Nigeria.

The registration process involves the following steps:

1. Application: Submit an application to the Ministry of Interior, Federal Civil Registry, or a

Nigerian embassy or consulate.

2. Documentation: Provide supporting documents, such as:

- Birth certificate
- Passport
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Proof of residency
- Grandparents' citizenship documents (if applicable)

3. Screening: Undergo a screening process, which includes a background check and an

interview.

4. Approval: If your application is approved, you will be scheduled to take the Oath of Allegiance.

5. Oath of Allegiance: Take the Oath of Allegiance to Nigeria, which signifies your commitment
to the country and its laws.
6. Certificate of Naturalization: Receive a Certificate of Naturalization, which confirms your
Nigerian citizenship.

In Nigeria, citizenship is primarily acquired through birth, naturalization, and registration. The
country also allows dual citizenship, and honorary citizenship is granted to individuals who have
made significant contributions to the country.

LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP

Loss of citizenship refers to the circumstances under which an individual's citizenship is

revoked or lost. In Nigeria, this can occur through various means, including:

1. RENUNCIATION :
An individual may voluntarily renounce their citizenship, usually through a formal
process.

The formal process of renouncing citizenship involves:

1. Meeting eligibility criteria which include being a citizen of the country, being of legal age (18+
years) and having a valid reason for renunciation (such as acquiring citizenship of another
country)
2. Obtaining and completing a renunciation application form
3. Submitting the application and supporting documents
4. Paying a renunciation fee
5. Attending an interview (if required)
6. Receiving a decision on the application
7. Taking an oath of renunciation (if approved)
8. Receiving a certificate of renunciation

2. DENATURALIZATION :
Citizenship may be revoked if it was obtained through fraud or concealment of facts during the
naturalization process.

3. REVOCATION :
Citizenship may be revoked due to criminal activity, disloyalty to the country, or other reasons
deemed sufficient by the government.

4. EXPIRATION :
In some cases, citizenship may expire if an individual fails to renew their citizenship or meet
certain requirements.

5. DEPORTATION :
In some cases, citizenship may be lost as a result of deportation, particularly if the individual is
deemed a threat to national security or public safety.
CHAPTER 4
CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES OF CITIZENSHIP
Citizenship is a complex and multifaceted concept that presents various challenges and
opportunities for individuals, communities, and nations. In this chapter, we will explore some of
the key challenges and opportunities of citizenship.

CHALLENGES OF CITIZENSHIP.

1. IDENTITY AND BELONGING :

Citizenship often raises questions about identity and belonging, particularly for marginalized
groups such as immigrants, minorities, and indigenous peoples.

2. POLITICAL PARTICIPATION AND ENGAGEMENT:

Citizenship requires active political participation and engagement, which can be challenging in
countries with limited political freedoms or high levels of corruption.

3. SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC RIGHTS:

Citizenship often struggles to guarantee social and economic rights, such as access to
healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.

4. GLOBALIZATION AND MIGRATION :

The increasing movement of people across borders poses challenges for citizenship, as
countries struggle to balance national security with human rights and international obligations.

5. DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION :

Citizenship must navigate the complexities of diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all citizens
feel valued and respected, regardless of their race, ethnicity, religion, or other characteristics.

OPPORTUNITIES OF CITIZENSHIP.

1. POLITICAL EMPOWERMENT :
Citizenship offers the opportunity for political empowerment, enabling citizens to participate in
the political process and hold leaders accountable.

2. SOCIAL MOBILITY :
Citizenship can provide opportunities for social mobility, as citizens access education,
employment, and healthcare.

3. CULTURAL EXCHANGE :
Citizenship facilitates cultural exchange and understanding, as citizens engage with diverse
cultures and perspectives.

4. GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP : ( DO WE REALLY NEED THIS? )

Citizenship can transcend national borders, as global citizens work together to address
common challenges and promote human rights.
5. ACTIVE CITIZENSHIP:
Citizenship encourages active citizenship, as citizens take responsibility for their communities
and work towards positive change.

In Nigeria, citizenship faces challenges such as political instability, economic inequality,

and social injustice. However, there are also opportunities for political empowerment, social
mobility, and cultural exchange. By embracing active citizenship and promoting inclusive and
equitable citizenship practices, Nigerians can work towards a more just and prosperous society.

CHAPTER 5
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS.
In conclusion, citizenship is a multifaceted concept that plays a vital role in shaping individual
and national identity, political participation, and social and economic rights. Nigeria, like many
other countries, faces challenges in balancing the rights and responsibilities of citizenship,
particularly in the context of political instability, economic inequality, and social injustice.
However, there are also opportunities for political empowerment, social mobility, and cultural
exchange.

Throughout this research, we have explored the concept of citizenship, its history, types,
acquisition, and deprivation. We have also examined the rights and responsibilities of
citizenship, including civil, political, social, and economic rights. Furthermore, we have
discussed the challenges and opportunities of citizenship in Nigeria, including political
participation, social and economic rights, globalization, and diversity.

To address the challenges and opportunities of citizenship in Nigeria, we recommend the

following:

1. STRENGTHENING POLITICAL INSTITUTIONS :

Nigeria must strengthen its political institutions to ensure accountability, transparency, and good
governance.

2. PROMOTING INCLUSIVE CITIZENSHIP :

Nigeria must promote inclusive citizenship practices that recognize and value diversity, and
address the historical injustices faced by marginalized groups.

3. ENHANCING POLITICAL PARTICIPATION :

Nigeria must enhance political participation by ensuring free and fair elections, and promoting
civic education and engagement.

4. ADDRESSING ECONOMIC INEQUALITY :

Nigeria must address economic inequality by promoting economic opportunities, social welfare,
and poverty reduction programs.
5. FOSTERING GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP :
Nigeria must foster global citizenship by promoting cultural exchange, international cooperation,
and human rights.

6. CIVIC EDUCATION :
Nigeria must prioritize civic education to empower citizens with the knowledge and skills
necessary to exercise their rights and responsibilities.

7. CONSTITUTIONAL REFORMS :
Nigeria must consider constitutional reforms to address issues of citizenship, political
participation, and social and economic rights.

8. POLICY REFORMS :
Nigeria must reform policies to address issues of economic inequality, social injustice, and
political exclusion.

By implementing these recommendations, Nigeria can build a more inclusive, equitable, and
prosperous society, where all citizens can enjoy their rights and responsibilities as full members
of the political community.

This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge on citizenship and highlights the
need for inclusive and equitable citizenship practices in Nigeria. Future research can build on
this study by exploring specific aspects of citizenship, such as political participation, social and
economic rights, and globalization.

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