Can you keep your Nigeria citizenship when you become a U.S. citizen?
Allowed
Yes, in general
Nigerians of origin who become U.S. citizens generally keep their Nigerian citizenship, since Nigeria allows dual nationality for nationals of origin.
What the law says
- Nigeria allows dual nationality for most persons, but does not allow persons naturalised in another country to naturalise as a Nigerian.
- Nationals of origin in Nigeria or another country are allowed to naturalise without renouncing other nationality.
- The 1999 Constitution allows dual nationality only for Nigerians of origin.
- Government officials such as the president, governor, or legislators may hold dual nationality only if they acquired Nigerian citizenship by birth and held it continuously.
- Nigerians may renounce their nationality through registration processes, and nationals of origin cannot be deprived of their nationality.
“Nigeria allows dual nationality for most persons”
What about the U.S. side?
The United States allows dual citizenship. At the oath ceremony you promise to renounce allegiance to other countries, but U.S. law does not make you formally give up your other passport. The question is only whether Nigeria lets you keep yours.
Source: Nigerian nationality law (Wikipedia, summarized on 2026-11-11). Laws change — confirm with the Nigeria embassy or consulate before your oath ceremony. This is not legal advice.
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