U.S.-Based Nigerian Professor Files Lawsuit Over Halted Citizenship Ceremony
- 10 hours ago
- 2 min read
A Nigerian-born academic in the United States, Professor Sunday Goshit, has taken legal action against the administration of President Donald Trump following the sudden cancellation of his citizenship oath ceremony, despite completing all requirements for naturalisation.
Goshit, who relocated from Nigeria to the U.S. in 2000, had applied for citizenship alongside his wife, Regina. After successfully passing the required tests, the couple were scheduled to take their oath of allegiance in January 2026. However, the ceremony was called off shortly before the date, leaving their citizenship process incomplete.
The disruption is linked to a presidential directive issued in December 2025, which allows immigration authorities to continue processing applications but delays final decisions indefinitely. The policy affects applicants from 39 countries, including Nigeria, and has left many in prolonged uncertainty.
Expressing frustration, Goshit said the delay has impacted his mobility, peace of mind, and long-term aspirations in the United States. He currently serves as an adjunct assistant professor in the Department of International Studies at the University of Iowa.
His case has drawn attention within his local community in Iowa, where advocacy groups have rallied in support. The Immigrant Welcome Network of Johnson County recently organised a press briefing to highlight his situation and similar cases affecting other residents.
Support has also grown online, with many describing the situation as unfair, particularly given the rigorous and often costly path to U.S. citizenship. Goshit’s case is now part of a broader legal challenge as affected applicants seek clarity and resolution over the stalled immigration process.
The lawsuit adds to ongoing scrutiny of recent immigration policies under President Trump’s second term, which have included tighter restrictions and expanded travel limitations on several countries.
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