The United States is set to deport at least 201 Nigerians, with 85 already cleared for immediate eviction. This move is part of President Donald Trump’s immigration policy, targeting undocumented immigrants
According to the US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr., the deportees will be flown directly to Lagos, although the exact date has not been disclosed. The first batch of deportees includes convicted prisoners who have committed crimes and violated US immigration laws.
Concerns Over Deportation Process
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mrs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has expressed concerns over the deportation process, pleading for dignified treatment of the deportees. She emphasized the need for the US government to follow established conventions on deportation.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also highlighted the impact of the deportation on the families of the deportees, particularly those who rely on remittances from the US for their survival and education. She urged the US government to clarify its position on the Drop Box Visa System and the future of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in Nigeria.
Nigeria’s Diaspora Population in the US
Nigeria has a significant diaspora population in the US, with an estimated 213,000 immigrants from Nigeria residing in the country. The deportation of Nigerian nationals is part of President Donald Trump’s immigration policy, which has been targeting undocumented immigrants.
