"Already, his example has enriched Michigan and our nation, but I know that his contributions to our country are only beginning," Levin said in a statement.

The number of illegal immigrants in the United States was estimated at 11.5 million last year.

If Obama signs the bill, the State Department will reduce by one the number of immigrant visas available to Nigerians.

That signature, Chukwueke says, will be his favorite holiday gift.