Nigeria to Kinloss and Azerbaijan to Buckie - Moray’s citizenship ceremonies take place in council headquarters

New citizens from as far afield as Azerbaijan, South Africa and the USA have been welcomed to north-east communities.

Citizenship ceremonies took place at Moray Council’s chambers on Thursday, September 19.

Taking part in a ceremony were Chukwu Anolue, originally from Nigeria, who is now living in Kinloss; Salma Ralph, originally from Libya and now living in Elgin; Stacey Whitney originally from the USA and now living in Forres; Yana Rabago from Azerbaijan and living in Buckie and Dehan Otto from South Africa.

Since local authorities took on the role of providing Certificates of Naturalisation in 2014, Moray has welcomed 644 new citizens from all corners of the globe.

This week’s ceremony, conducted by Liz Lambie, the senior registrar for Moray, was also attended by Vice Lord-Lieutenant Nancy Robson (Moray); Deputy Lieutenant Lucy Mackenzie (Moray); and Deputy Lieutenant Kay Gauld (Banffshire).

Previous citizenship ceremonies have taken place at the registrar offices at 240 High Street in Elgin.

The move to the council chambers comes as the registration service prepares to move to council HQ from November 11.

Speaking at the ceremony, Cllr John Cowe, said: “I’m delighted Chukwu, Salma, Dehan, Stacey and Yana have chosen to make Moray and Banffshire their home.

“It’s a phenomenal place to live, work and play so we welcome them and their contributions to our communities.

“It was especially nice to see the council chambers host the ceremonies for the first time, giving even more significance to the occasion.”

Deputy Lieutenant for Banffshire, Kay Gauld, commented: “Banffshire is honoured to be chosen as home for new residents and Yana has been part of our community for many years now.

“It’s lovely to see her become an official citizen after so long with us, where she is most welcome.”