Nigeria did not have a specific residency-by-investment program tied to real estate purchases, like some other countries do.

This means that simply buying property in Nigeria does not automatically qualify a foreigner for residency.

However, there are other pathways to residency in Nigeria, primarily based on employment, family reunification, or long-term visas for specific purposes like business.

To become a resident under these categories, you typically need to have a valid reason for staying in Nigeria, such as employment with a local company, running a business, or being a dependent of a Nigerian citizen or a foreigner with legal residency.

If you’re interested in obtaining residency in Nigeria through investment, it’s more about investing in a business or an enterprise that contributes to the Nigerian economy, rather than just purchasing property.

This route usually involves a significant investment in a business and may come with specific requirements regarding the amount of investment, the type of business, and its impact on the local economy.

The exact steps and requirements for obtaining residency through investment can be complex and vary based on individual circumstances.

Typically, it involves applying for a suitable visa or permit, providing evidence of your investment, and meeting other criteria set by the Nigerian immigration authorities.

Regarding the duration of residency, it depends on the type of permit or visa you obtain. Some might offer temporary residency for a few years, while others could lead to permanent residency if certain conditions are met over time.

Permanent residency is a more extended and involved process, often requiring several years of continuous legal residence, adherence to local laws, and possibly other criteria like language proficiency or cultural integration.

As for citizenship, obtaining Nigerian citizenship through residency is a separate process.

It typically requires an extended period of continuous legal residence, a demonstration of integration into Nigerian society, and adherence to its laws and values. Property ownership alone would not directly lead to citizenship.

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