Research & Scholarly Publications
Interrogating Citizenship in Contemporary Nigeria
This contribution examines the gap between formal citizenship and the effective enjoyment of citizenship rights in Nigeria. Through the experiences of women and children returning from Boko Haram captivity and communities affected by the transfer of the Bakassi Peninsula to Cameroon, it demonstrates how indigeneity rules, administrative discretion, displacement and uncertain nationality status can undermine legal protections and social belonging. It argues that citizenship can be effectively weakened without formal revocation, as discriminatory practices and inadequate documentation restrict access to rights, livelihoods and public services. The chapter calls for stronger citizenship protections, more inclusive administrative practices and policies that address exclusion and the risks of statelessness.