The United States of America has naturalised 47,819 Nigerians as citizens between 2019 and 2023, according to the latest U.S. Naturalisations Annual Flow Report published by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
The report, released on Monday, places Nigeria among the top sources of new American citizens during the four-year period, reflecting both the scale of Nigerian migration and the community’s growing footprint in the U.S.
Data from the DHS show that thousands of Nigerians completed the naturalisation process each year, after meeting eligibility requirements that include lawful permanent residency, continuous residence, and proficiency in English.
Migration analysts note that the figure highlights the strong pull of the United States for Nigerians seeking better economic opportunities, higher education, and improved living standards. It also underscores the diaspora’s role in deepening ties between the two countries.
In recent years, the Nigerian-American community has become increasingly visible in professional fields such as medicine, engineering, law, academia, and the creative industries. Experts believe that the surge in naturalisations could further boost remittances, cultural exchange, and bilateral relations.
While the DHS report does not break down the numbers by state of residence, previous studies suggest that Nigerian immigrants are concentrated in Texas, Maryland, New York, Georgia, and California.
The naturalisation process typically grants new citizens full rights under U.S. law, including the right to vote, access to federal jobs, and eligibility for certain benefits, while also strengthening their sense of belonging in American society.
