Citizenship is one of the most important aspects of belonging to a nation. It defines the legal relationship between an individual and a country, granting them rights, privileges, and responsibilities.
A citizen enjoys full participation in the political, economic, and social affairs of their nation, while a non-citizen has limited or no access to such privileges. Understanding citizenship helps individuals appreciate their role in national development and recognize the benefits and duties that come with it. In this lesson, we will explore the meaning of citizenship, how it is acquired, the rights and obligations of a citizen, and the differences between citizens and non-citizens.
The word “citizenship” originates from the Latin word “civitas,” which means “city” or “community.” In ancient Rome, a “civis” (citizen) was a recognized member of a city-state who had legal rights and responsibilities. The concept of citizenship evolved over time, from the city-states of Greece and Rome to modern nation-states, where it now signifies a legal and political relationship between an individual and a country.
Citizenship is the legal recognition of an individual by the state as a member of a particular country, granting them certain rights, privileges, and responsibilities. It signifies a relationship between the individual and the state, where the state provides protection and rights, and the individual pledges allegiance and fulfills certain obligations.
In other words, citizenship refers to the legal status that grants an individual full rights, duties, and responsibilities within a nation. A citizen is legally recognised as a full member of a country and enjoys civil, political, and economic rights, such as voting, holding public office, and receiving government protection. In return, a citizen must obey laws, pay taxes, and contribute to national development.
Table of Contents
ORIGIN OF CITIZENSHIP
Historical Origins of Citizenship
The concept of citizenship has evolved over thousands of years, from ancient civilizations to modern nation-states. Its origins can be traced through different historical periods:
1. Ancient Greece: The earliest form of citizenship emerged in ancient Greek city-states, particularly Athens. In Athens, citizenship was a privilege reserved for free-born men whose parents were Athenian. Citizens had the right to participate in decision-making through direct democracy, vote in assemblies, and hold public office. However, women, slaves, and foreigners (metics) were excluded from citizenship.
2. Ancient Rome: The Roman Empire expanded the idea of citizenship beyond city-states. Initially, only free-born Roman men had full citizenship, which granted them rights such as voting, owning property, and legal protection. Over time, Rome introduced “civitas” (citizenship) to conquered territories, extending rights to people in different parts of the empire. In 212 AD, Emperor Caracalla granted Roman citizenship to all free inhabitants of the empire through the Edict of Caracalla. This marked a major shift in the development of inclusive citizenship.
3. Medieval Period: During the Middle Ages, the concept of citizenship declined as feudalism replaced centralized governance. People were identified more by their feudal allegiances (lords and vassals) than by their membership in a nation. Instead of democratic participation, loyalty to a ruler or noble determined one’s status. Cities and towns, however, maintained some forms of local citizenship for merchants and guild members.
4. Renaissance and Enlightenment Era: The Renaissance revived interest in civic participation, and the Enlightenment further shaped modern citizenship. Thinkers like John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Montesquieu emphasized the idea of social contracts, natural rights, and popular sovereignty. Citizenship was no longer seen as a privilege granted by rulers but as a fundamental right tied to individual freedoms and democratic governance.
5. Modern Nation-States (18th – 20th Century): The American Revolution (1776) and the French Revolution (1789) introduced ideas of national citizenship based on equality, liberty, and political participation. The French Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen (1789) declared that all men are born free and equal, reinforcing the idea that citizenship should be based on rights rather than social class.
6. Contemporary Citizenship (20th – 21st Century): In the modern era, citizenship has become more inclusive, recognizing women, minorities, and immigrants through legal reforms. Many countries have adopted principles such as birthright citizenship (jus soli), citizenship by descent (jus sanguinis), and naturalization. Globalisation has also introduced concepts of dual citizenship, regional citizenship (e.g., European Union citizenship), and digital citizenship..
IMPORTANCE OF CITIZENSHIP
Citizenship is a vital aspect of national identity, ensuring that individuals are legally recognized as members of a state and enjoy the rights and privileges granted by the government. It fosters a sense of belonging and responsibility, encouraging active participation in the country’s development. The importance of citizenship includes the following:
- Legal Recognition and Protection
Citizenship grants individuals legal recognition as members of a state, ensuring their rights are protected under the law. It provides security from unlawful persecution and guarantees access to justice.
- Access to Government Services
Citizens enjoy various government-provided benefits, such as education, healthcare, social security, and public infrastructure. These services improve their quality of life and well-being.
- Political Participation
Citizenship gives individuals the right to vote, be voted for, and engage in decision-making processes. This ensures that citizens have a say in governance and policy-making.
- Sense of Identity and Belonging
Citizenship provides individuals with a national identity, fostering a deep connection to their country. This sense of belonging encourages patriotism and national pride.
- Right to Work and Economic Opportunities
Citizens often have unrestricted access to employment opportunities, including government jobs and business ownership, contributing to economic growth and stability.
- Freedom of Movement and Residency
Citizens have the right to live and move freely within their country without restrictions. They also enjoy privileges such as obtaining a national passport, which allows them to travel and return freely.
- Civic Responsibility and National Development
Citizenship comes with responsibilities, such as obeying laws, paying taxes, and contributing to national progress. Active citizenship helps build a stable, prosperous, and well-functioning society.
- Inheritance and Property Rights
Citizens have the legal right to own and inherit property without restrictions. This ensures economic security for them and future generations.
- Diplomatic Protection Abroad
Citizens receive assistance from their country’s embassies or consulates when they travel or live abroad. This protection is crucial in cases of emergencies, conflicts, or legal issues.
- Cultural and Social Inclusion
Citizenship strengthens social cohesion by promoting shared values, traditions, and responsibilities. It encourages unity among diverse groups within a country.
TYPES OF CITIZENSHIP
- By Birth – Acquired when a person is born in a country.
- By Descent – Acquired when a person’s parents or grandparents are citizens of a country.
- By Registration – Acquired through a formal application, usually by marriage or long-term residence.
- By Naturalization – Acquired when a foreigner meets legal requirements to become a citizen.
- By Honorary Citizenship – Given to distinguished individuals as a mark of recognition.
- By Adoption – Acquired when a child adopted by citizens gains the nationality of their adoptive parents.
METHODS OF ACQUISITION OF CITIZENSHIP
A person can acquire citizenship in different ways, depending on the laws of the country. Below are the main methods:
Citizenship by Birth
A person automatically becomes a citizen of a country if they are born within its territory. This is known as jus soli(right of the soil). Some countries, like the United States and Canada, grant citizenship to anyone born on their land, regardless of their parents’ nationality. However, in countries like Nigeria, citizenship by birth is only granted if at least one parent is a Nigerian citizen.
Citizenship by Descent
This is based on the principle of jus sanguinis(right of blood), where a child inherits the citizenship of their parents or grandparents. If a Nigerian couple gives birth to a child while living in another country, the child can still claim Nigerian citizenship by descent.
Citizenship by Registration
This method allows individuals to become citizens through an official registration process. It is commonly granted to:
- Foreigners who marry citizens of the country.
- Children whose parents later become citizens through naturalization.
- Individuals with close historical or cultural ties to the country.
For example, a foreign woman married to a Nigerian man can apply for Nigerian citizenship through registration.
Citizenship by Naturalization
This is when a foreigner applies for and is granted citizenship after fulfilling legal conditions. The requirements often include:
- A long period of residence in the country.
- Good moral character.
- No criminal record.
- Knowledge of the country’s language, culture, and history.
- Oath of allegiance to the country.
For instance, a Ghanaian who has lived in Nigeria for 15 years, paid taxes, and contributed positively to society may apply for Nigerian citizenship by naturalization.
Citizenship by Honorary Status
This is a special recognition granted by a country to foreigners who have made outstanding contributions to national development. It is not acquired through birth, descent, or residence but as a token of appreciation. An example is the honorary citizenship granted to Nelson Mandela by several countries due to his contributions to global peace.
Citizenship by Adoption
In some countries, when a foreign child is legally adopted by citizens, they automatically gain the nationality of their adoptive parents. This method ensures that adopted children enjoy the same rights as biological children.
RIGHTS, DUTIES, AND OBLIGATIONS OF A CITIZEN
Rights of a Citizen
A citizen enjoys fundamental human rights, which protect their freedom and dignity. These rights include:
- Right to Life – Every citizen has the right to live and cannot be killed unlawfully.
- Right to Personal Liberty – No one can be detained without a valid reason.
- Right to Freedom of Expression – Citizens can freely express their thoughts, opinions, and beliefs.
- Right to Vote and Be Voted For – Citizens can participate in elections as voters and candidates.
- Right to Freedom of Movement – Citizens can travel freely within the country and abroad.
- Right to Education – Every citizen has the right to acquire knowledge and skills.
- Right to Own Property – Citizens can buy, sell, and own property legally.
- Right to Freedom of Religion – Citizens can practice any religion of their choice.
- Right to a Fair Hearing – Every citizen is entitled to a fair trial in court.
- Right to Privacy – Citizens’ personal lives, homes, and communications are protected from unlawful interference.
Duties and Obligations of a Citizen
While citizens enjoy rights, they also have duties and responsibilities, including:
- Obeying the Law – Citizens must follow the rules and regulations of their country.
- Paying Taxes – Citizens must pay their taxes to support government services.
- Defending the Country – In times of war or crisis, citizens should be willing to protect their nation.
- Civic Responsibilities – Registering to vote, participating in elections, and engaging in public affairs.
- Assisting Law Enforcement – Reporting crimes and cooperating with security agencies.
- Respect for National Symbols – Honoring the national anthem, flag, and pledge.
- Protection of Public Property – Avoiding vandalism and destruction of public infrastructure.
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN A CITIZEN AND A NON-CITIZEN
Citizens and non-citizens differ in terms of legal status, rights, and obligations. The differences include:
- By Legal Status: A citizen is legally recognized as a full member of a country, while a non-citizen is a foreigner who does not have full membership rights in that country.
- By Political Rights: A citizen has the right to vote and be voted for in elections, while a non-citizen cannot participate in the country’s electoral process.
- By Government Benefits: Citizens have full access to government services and social benefits such as healthcare and education, whereas non-citizens may have limited or no access to these benefits.
- By Obligations: Citizens are required to fulfill certain legal obligations, such as paying taxes and serving in the military if necessary, while non-citizens do not always have these responsibilities.
- By Legal Protection: Citizens enjoy full legal protection under the country’s constitution and laws, while non-citizens may have limited protection and could face deportation under certain conditions.
- By Residency Rights: Citizens have permanent residency in their country and cannot be forced to leave, while non-citizens may require visas or work permits and can be asked to leave if they violate immigration laws.
- By Employment Opportunities: Citizens can work in any sector of the country, including government positions, while non-citizens may have restrictions on employment, especially in public service roles.
- By Property Ownership: Some countries restrict property ownership to citizens, meaning that non-citizens may face limitations in buying land or property.
WAYS OF LOSING CITIZENSHIP
Just as there are different ways to acquire citizenship, there are also ways in which an individual can lose their citizenship. Losing citizenship means that a person is no longer legally recognized as a citizen of a country and will no longer enjoy the rights and privileges of citizenship. Some of the ways to lose citizenship include:
Renunciation (Voluntary Loss of Citizenship)
A citizen may decide to give up their citizenship voluntarily by officially renouncing it. This usually happens when a person wants to acquire the citizenship of another country that does not allow dual citizenship. The person must apply to the government, and once the renunciation is approved, they cease to be a citizen. For example, a Nigerian who wants to become a citizen of Japan must renounce their Nigerian citizenship since Japan does not allow dual nationality.
Denaturalization (Revocation of Citizenship by the Government)
This applies to people who acquired citizenship through naturalization or registration. If it is discovered that a person obtained citizenship fraudulently or illegally, the government has the right to revoke it. For example, If a foreigner acquires Nigerian citizenship by providing false documents, their citizenship can be revoked.
Committing Crimes Against the State (Treason or Espionage)
Engaging in acts that threaten the country’s security, such as treason, terrorism, or espionage, can lead to the loss of citizenship. The government has the power to strip a person of their citizenship if they are found guilty of acts that endanger national security. For example, If a naturalized citizen is caught spying for an enemy country, they may lose their citizenship.
Long Absence from the Country Without Permission
Some countries require naturalised citizens to maintain a connection with the country. A person who stays away for an extended period without maintaining ties with the country, may lose citizenship. For example, a naturalised Nigerian citizen who leaves the country for 20 years without returning or contributing to the country’s development may lose citizenship.
Acquisition of Another Country’s Citizenship (Loss Due to Dual Citizenship Laws)
Some countries do not allow their citizens to hold another country’s citizenship. A citizen who acquires another nationality, automatically loses original citizenship of the country. For example, if a Nigerian citizen takes up the citizenship of a country that does not permit dual nationality, they may be forced to give up their Nigerian citizenship.
Being Sentenced to a Long-Term Prison Sentence
In some cases, a citizen may lose their citizenship if they are convicted of a very serious crime and sentenced to a long prison term. For example, a naturalized citizen who is sentenced to life imprisonment for drug trafficking may lose their citizenship.
Engaging in Activities That Harm the Country’s Interests
If a citizen is involved in activities that damage the country’s reputation or security, their citizenship can be revoked. For example, if a citizen joins a foreign military force that is hostile to their country, they may be stripped of their citizenship.
SAFEGUARDING CITIZENS’ RIGHTS
The government and society play an important role in ensuring that the rights of citizens are protected. Without proper safeguards, citizens’ rights may be violated, leading to injustice and oppression. Some of the ways of protecting citizens’ rights include:
Independent and Impartial Judiciary
- The judiciary (court system) must be independent and free from political interference.
- Judges should make fair and unbiased decisions to protect citizens’ rights
- Courts should ensure that all citizens receive justice, regardless of their status.
Freedom of the Press and Media
A free press allows journalists to report on government activities and expose corruption. When the media operates without censorship, it helps to check abuses of power and protects citizens’ rights.
Rule of Law
- The principle of rule of lawensures that no one is above the law.
- Citizens must be treated equally under the law, and laws should be applied fairly.
- The government must respect and enforce human rights laws.
- Human Rights Organizations and Advocacy Groups
- Civil society organizations play a role in protecting citizens’ rights by raising awareness and advocating for justice.
- Organizations like the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in Nigeria monitor human rights violations and seek justice for victims.
Good Governance and Accountability
A responsible government should listen to the needs of its citizens and ensure their rights are upheld. Transparent and accountable leadership prevents the abuse of power and promotes citizens’ rights.
Peace and Order in Society
Ensuring national security and stability helps protect the rights of all citizens. A country affected by war or political instability often experiences human rights violations.
Access to Legal Aid
Citizens should have access to legal assistance if their rights are violated. Free or affordable legal services should be available to help individuals seek justice.
LIMITATIONS TO CITIZENS’ RIGHTS
While citizens have fundamental rights, these rights are not absolute. There are situations where certain rights can be limited for the good of society. Some of the reasons for limiting citizens’ rights include:
- To maintain national security and public safety.
- To prevent harm to other individuals.
- To uphold law and order.
- To protect the country’s sovereignty.
Right to Life May Be Denied in Extreme Cases
- A citizen may lose their right to life if they are sentenced to death for a serious crime like murder or treason.
- During war, soldiers may be ordered to kill enemy combatants to defend their country.
- Right to personal liberty can be limited during legal arrests
- If a citizen commits a crime, they can be arrested and detained, limiting their freedom.
- During a national emergency, the government may impose curfews or restrict movement.
Freedom of Expression Can Be Restricted by Laws Against Hate Speech
- Citizens have the right to express their opinions, but they cannot spread false information, hate speech, or incite violence.
- Laws against slander, libel, and sedition prevent people from making false accusations against others.
Freedom of Movement May Be Restricted for Security Reasons
- During a national crisis, a government may impose movement restrictions to prevent violence or the spread of disease (e.g., lockdowns during a pandemic).
- If a person is under criminal investigation, they may be placed under house arrest or banned from traveling.
Public Assemblies May Be Banned for Security Reasons
Citizens have the right to peaceful protest, but protests may be restricted if they threaten national security. For example: a protest that turns violent may be dispersed by security forces to maintain law and order.
Right to Privacy Can Be Overridden by Security Agencies
- Law enforcement agencies can monitor communication if a person is suspected of terrorism or other crimes.
- If a citizen is involved in criminal activities, security forces may search their home with a valid warrant.
Final Thoughts
Citizenship is a fundamental aspect of belonging to a country. It provides individuals with rights, privileges, and responsibilities. There are different ways to acquire citizenship, including birth, descent, registration, naturalisation, and honorary recognition. However, citizenship can also be lost through renunciation, de-naturalization, or committing serious crimes.
Citizens enjoy fundamental rights such as freedom of speech, movement, and the right to vote, but they also have responsibilities like obeying laws, paying taxes, and serving the country when required. While rights are essential, they are not absolute and may be restricted under certain circumstances to protect national security and public order.
By understanding citizenship, its benefits, and responsibilities, individuals can actively contribute to the growth and development of their country.
