Fashola Dismisses Dual Citizenship Claims, Says He’s ‘Arrogantly Nigerian’
Former Lagos State Governor and immediate past Minister of Works, Babatunde Fashola, has rejected claims that he holds dual citizenship, insisting he is Nigerian by choice, conviction and identity.
Fashola made the declaration on Tuesday in Abuja while delivering a keynote address at the Nigeria Reputation Summit 2026, organised by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations.
Speaking on national identity, migration, patriotism and Nigeria’s global image, he urged Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to take collective ownership of the country and its challenges.
He stressed that although the constitution allows dual citizenship, he holds only Nigerian citizenship and is unapologetic about it, describing himself as “proudly and arrogantly Nigerian.”
Fashola noted that all his education was obtained in Nigeria and expressed confidence that the country can reclaim anything it appears to have lost if citizens remain committed.
He also highlighted Nigeria’s opportunities for social mobility, saying the nation allows people from humble beginnings to rise to leadership positions.
Warning against letting the actions of a few individuals define the country’s image, Fashola said such people do not represent the values of most Nigerians.
He recalled experiences abroad where Nigerians were warmly received, even during periods of security challenges, noting that a nation’s reputation is determined by how it confronts and responds to difficulties.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
