FG Appeals For Humane Process As 201 Nigerians Face Deportation Under Trump Policy
The Federal Government has called for a humane and dignified process as the United States prepares to deport no fewer than 201 Nigerians in line with former President Donald Trump’s immigration policies.
Among those set for repatriation, 85 individuals have already been cleared for immediate deportation, including convicted criminals serving prison terms and others who have violated U.S. immigration laws.
The deportees are expected to be flown to Lagos, with no alternative destinations considered.
During a meeting in Abuja, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, expressed deep concerns over the emotional, financial, and logistical implications of the deportations. She urged the U.S. government to ensure that those affected are treated with dignity and given sufficient time to manage their assets before repatriation.
“With the new U.S. administration, we seek commitments to a deportation process that respects human dignity. We are particularly concerned about the conditions under which our nationals will be returned,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu stated.
The minister highlighted the significant impact deportations would have on families in Nigeria, particularly those who rely on remittances from relatives in the U.S.
She also raised concerns over reports that many deported individuals are often shackled during transit, calling for adherence to international deportation protocols.
Beyond deportation, Odumegwu-Ojukwu appealed to the U.S. government for clarity on its visa policies, particularly the rumored suspension of the Drop Box Visa System.
She emphasized that many Nigerians who frequently travel to the U.S. for legitimate purposes could face undue hardship if the system is discontinued.
“The Drop Box Visa system has been a lifeline for many Nigerians, including students, business professionals, and families. We urge the U.S. government to issue a clear statement on its current status to allay growing concerns,” she said.
READ ALSO
- US Congressman Accuses USAID Of Funding Boko Haram, Other Terror Groups
- Nigeria Govt To Absorb 28,000 Health Workers Formerly Paid By USAID
The minister also addressed uncertainties surrounding the future of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in Nigeria. She stressed the importance of USAID’s humanitarian and health initiatives, calling for continued engagement despite policy reviews by the new U.S. administration.
Responding to these concerns, U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr., assured that the Drop Box Visa System had not been suspended but was undergoing review. He acknowledged the anxieties surrounding USAID’s operations, stating that while some adjustments were being made, critical life-saving programs in health and humanitarian sectors remained intact.
On the matter of deportations, Mills reaffirmed that the repatriations would strictly adhere to U.S. laws, focusing on individuals who had committed crimes or violated immigration regulations.
“The first group consists of convicted criminals and individuals who have exhausted all legal avenues to remain in the U.S.,” Mills said. “We recognize Nigeria as a strong partner and will continue to strengthen trade and diplomatic ties despite these developments.”
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also emphasised Nigeria’s commitment to citizen diplomacy, stating that the current administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is actively working to protect its citizens abroad. She called for strategic partnerships to address unemployment and illegal migration, noting that the government is focused on fostering opportunities that reduce the need for Nigerians to seek irregular migration routes.
The discussion also touched on regional security and governance, with Mills expressing concerns over recent democratic instability in Africa, including the withdrawal of three Sahel states from ECOWAS. He reaffirmed the U.S.’s commitment to working with Nigeria on counter-terrorism and regional stability.
As Nigeria awaits the repatriation of its citizens, the government continues to push for policies that ensure their reintegration with minimal disruption, while strengthening diplomatic engagements with the U.S. to protect the interests of its nationals.
Hafsoh Isiaq is a graduate of Linguistics. An avid writer committed to creative, high-quality research and news reportage. She has considerable experience in writing and reporting across a variety of platforms including print and online.
