Senator Ned Nwoko, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Reparation and Repatriation, has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening ties between Nigeria and the global African diaspora. This week, he received a delegation from the African Diasporan Union at the National Assembly, during which a bill was formally presented seeking to grant Nigerian citizenship to Afro-descendants who have traced their ancestral roots to Nigeria.
The proposed legislation aims to provide a legal pathway for descendants of Africans displaced through slavery and colonization to reconnect with their heritage by acquiring Nigerian citizenship.
In his remarks, Senator Nwoko expressed his support for the initiative, emphasizing the need to align such proposals with Nigeria’s constitutional and legal frameworks. “This is a historic and emotional step toward reconnecting with our lost brothers and sisters across the world. While I fully support the intent of this bill, we must ensure that all legislative and constitutional provisions are carefully followed to achieve sustainable outcomes,” he said.
As part of his broader commitment to diaspora engagement, Senator Nwoko also highlighted a related bill he sponsored, which seeks to grant voting rights to Nigerians living abroad. The bill is currently under deliberation in the Senate and is seen as a major step toward inclusivity and national unity.
“My office as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Reparation and Repatriation must serve the people meaningfully,” he stated. “Our efforts must be geared toward healing historical injustices and fostering stronger bonds with the global African family.”
The interaction marks a significant step in Nigeria’s ongoing dialogue with the African diaspora and the legislative strides being taken to promote inclusivity, identity restoration, and national development.
