Citizenship can be acquired through all of the following methods except

Analyze the question: We are asked which option is NOT a method of acquiring citizenship. Three options are real methods, and one is not.

Explain the concept: In Nigeria, the Constitution (1999, Chapter III) recognizes these main ways of acquiring citizenship:

1. Birth: being born in the country, or born to Nigerian parents (citizenship by birth).
2. Registration: for example, a foreign woman who marries a Nigerian man, or persons of Nigerian descent.
3. Naturalization: a foreigner who meets the legal requirements (residency, good character, intention to reside permanently, and so on) is granted citizenship.
4. Honorary citizenship: given to distinguished persons.
5. Marriage: usually leads to citizenship by registration.

Step-by-step solution:

• A. Birth: a valid method.
• B. Nationalization: this is not a method of acquiring citizenship. "Nationalization" is an economic term. It means a government taking private businesses or industries into public or state ownership (for example, nationalizing oil companies). It has nothing to do with individuals becoming citizens.
• C. Naturalization: a valid method. This is the legal process by which a foreigner becomes a citizen.
• D. Marriage: a valid method, since a foreign spouse can acquire citizenship by registration.

The correct answer is the one that does not belong, which is nationalization.

Answer: B

Exam tip: Do not confuse these two look-alike words:

• Naturalization = a person becomes a citizen.
• Nationalization = the government takes over private property or businesses.

Examiners often place these two together to test your attention, so read each option carefully.