The Lagos State Government has processed 116 applications for naturalisation and special immigration status by foreign nationals in the past two years, reflecting increasing interest in formal residency in the state.
This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Alhaji Olanrewaju Layode, at the ongoing ministerial press briefing to mark the second anniversary of the second term of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in office, held at Alausa, Ikeja.
Layode said that of the 116 applications received by the Ministry, 63 qualified applicants have been cleared and forwarded to the Federal Government for further processing.
“The rise in naturalisation requests is a testament to Lagos State’s appeal as a preferred destination for legal settlement and professional advancement,” the Commissioner said.
He added that the Ministry continues to uphold rigorous vetting processes to ensure only credible applicants receive endorsement.
In addition to its work on immigration matters, the Ministry of Home Affairs has also maintained a strong record in pilgrimage oversight. Layode noted that no pilgrim from Lagos has absconded during Christian or Muslim pilgrimages in the last six years.
For this year’s Hajj, 1,288 pilgrims have so far departed for Mecca, with the final batch expected to leave in the coming week.
The Commissioner further revealed that 21 money lenders were sanctioned during the review period for regulatory infractions, reiterating the Ministry’s commitment to financial discipline and ethical standards.