A Nigerian professor based in the United States, Sunday Goshit, has filed a lawsuit against the Donald Trump administration over the sudden cancellation of his naturalisation oath ceremony, despite having already been approved for U.S. citizenship. The incident, which has drawn widespread attention, occurred just weeks before the scheduled January 2026 ceremony, leaving Goshit and his wife, Regina, in legal and emotional limbo. The couple, who immigrated to the U.S. in 2000, had successfully completed all required citizenship exams and were on the verge of becoming full citizens when the process was abruptly halted.
The cancellation stems from a presidential proclamation signed by President Trump in December 2024, which directed immigration officials to continue processing applications for work permits, green cards, and citizenship—but to delay making final decisions indefinitely. This order affects 39 countries, including Nigeria, and has left thousands of immigrants in prolonged uncertainty. Many applicants, including Goshit and his wife, are now seeking legal recourse as their cases remain frozen without a clear timeline for resolution.
Goshit, who currently serves as an adjunct assistant professor in the Department of International Studies at the University of Iowa, described the situation as deeply disruptive. “That affects my ability to travel, my peace of mind, and the full realization of the American dream that I’ve spent half a life building,” he told KCCI8. His case has become symbolic for many immigrants facing similar setbacks, especially in Iowa, where he is widely respected as a community leader and advocate.
The Immigrant Welcome Network of Johnson County recently held a press conference to highlight Goshit’s plight, emphasizing that his story reflects broader systemic issues. They noted that Goshit is not only a professor but also the President of the Iowa City Foreign Relations Council and co-founder of the African Festival of Arts and Culture. His leadership and contributions to the community have made his sudden legal obstacle a matter of public concern.
Support for Goshit has grown rapidly on social media, with many expressing outrage over the government’s actions. On Instagram, a user identified as @madame_dimanche, believed to be Goshit’s daughter, shared her gratitude for the outpouring of support. She praised her parents’ sacrifices and described her father as a “leader at heart” who seeks truth and justice for all. Another supporter, Jessica Andino, criticized the decision as unjust, pointing to the immense time, effort, and financial cost involved in the naturalisation process.
Trump’s second term, which began in January 2025, has been marked by aggressive anti-immigration policies. In December 2024, he reinstated a travel ban targeting Nigeria and several other nations, citing national security concerns. As legal challenges like Goshit’s continue to emerge, the case may set a precedent for how immigration rights are protected under the current administration. The outcome could have lasting implications for thousands of immigrants striving to become U.S. citizens.
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