Thousands of Nigerians serving in the US military have earned their stripes – and their green cards! A recent report reveals Nigeria ranks fourth globally in the number of citizens granted US permanent residency through military naturalization between 2020 and 2024. This exciting opportunity offers a fast-track to American citizenship for those willing to serve. Read on to discover the full story and what it means for aspiring Nigerian-Americans.
- Over 3,000 Nigerians gained US green cards through military service since 2020.
- Nigeria ranks 4th globally in military naturalizations, behind the Philippines, Jamaica, and Mexico.
- The US Army leads in naturalization approvals, followed by the Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps.
- A majority of naturalized service members are between 22 and 30 years old.
A Path to Citizenship Through Service
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has reported that over 52,000 military service members from various nations have been granted US citizenship since 2020. Among these, a remarkable 3,270 are Nigerian-born individuals, highlighting the significant contribution and commitment of Nigerians to the US military. This puts Nigeria just behind the Philippines (5,630), Jamaica (5,420), and Mexico (3,670).
Nigeria’s Growing Presence
Data shows a steady increase in the number of Nigerian service members naturalized in recent years, rising from 340 in 2020 to an impressive 930 in 2024. This upward trend showcases the growing appeal of US citizenship and the opportunities it provides for individuals and their families.
Who’s Getting Naturalized?
The report reveals key demographics about the naturalized service members. The Army accounts for a significant 60% of approvals, followed by the Navy (20.4%), Air Force (10.6%), and Marine Corps (6.6%). The majority of those granted citizenship are between the ages of 22 and 30, with a median age of 27. Men represent the larger share of naturalizations at 73%, although the proportion of women has been gradually increasing. This data paints a picture of the typical service member taking advantage of this pathway to citizenship.
Why Military Naturalization?
Military naturalization offers several advantages. It can expedite the citizenship process, bypassing certain requirements for civilian applicants. Furthermore, it demonstrates a strong commitment to the US, enhancing the individual’s standing and opening doors to various opportunities.
What This Means for Nigerians
This news is a positive sign for Nigerians seeking US citizenship. It underscores the valuable contributions of Nigerians to the US military and highlights a viable pathway to achieving the American dream. However, it’s important to note that military service entails significant commitments and requires thorough research and preparation.
Looking Ahead
As more Nigerians opt for this route, we can expect to see a continued rise in military naturalizations. This growing connection between Nigeria and the US through military service not only strengthens diplomatic ties but also reinforces the important role immigrants play in American society.
Did You Know?
The USCIS provides resources and support for military members and their families during the naturalization process, easing the transition to American citizenship. For more information, check out the official USCIS website.
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