Crossword Genius

In part, merit reanimated African citizen (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

eritrean

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'citizen' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both people as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps there's an association between them I don't understand?

'in part merit reanimated african' is the wordplay.
'in part' says the answer is hidden in the clue.
'ERITREAN' is hidden in the letters of 'merit reanimated african'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for eritrean that I've seen before include "East African" , "One now independent from Ethiopia" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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