The Federal Government of Nigeria has urged the United States to ensure a dignified and humane process for the deportation of Nigerian immigrants.
This appeal was made by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, during a meeting with the U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr., in Abuja.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu, in a statement released by her Special Assistant on Communication and New Media, Magnus Eze, expressed concerns over the emotional and financial toll on Nigerians affected by the new U.S. administration’s deportation plans.
201 Nigerians in immigration camps
She revealed that approximately 201 Nigerians are currently held in U.S. immigration camps, with about 85 already cleared for deportation.
“If deportation must occur, it should be carried out with dignity,” the minister stated.
- She emphasized the need for affected individuals to be given adequate time to manage their assets and personal affairs before repatriation.
- “Will they be bundled onto planes and sent back without regard for their circumstances?” she questioned, highlighting the trauma deportation inflicts not only on the individuals but also on their families in Nigeria, who rely on their remittances for survival and education.
Appeal for clarity on Drop Box Visa system
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also raised concerns over the potential suspension of the U.S. Drop Box Visa System, which simplifies visa applications for genuine travelers.
She urged the U.S. government to reconsider any plans to suspend the policy and issue an official statement clarifying its position.
This call comes amid growing anxiety among Nigerians, particularly parents of over 14,000 Nigerian students studying in the U.S., who fear possible changes to student visa policies.
Uncertainty over USAID programs
Regarding the future of USAID programs in Nigeria, Odumegwu-Ojukwu noted that while an outright suspension has not been confirmed, many non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are anxious for clarity.
- She appealed for the continuation of USAID initiatives, citing their critical role in addressing humanitarian challenges across Nigeria and Africa.
- The minister commended the post-COVID-19 trade relations between Nigeria and the U.S. and encouraged further investments in Nigeria’s mining sector.
- She also called for the reactivation of the ‘Silent Secretariat’ to facilitate bilateral assessments and strengthen economic ties between the two nations.
U.S. response: Policy reviews and commitments
In response, Ambassador Mills clarified that the Drop Box Visa Policy has not been suspended but is under review as part of the new administration’s policy adjustments.
- He assured that USAID remains committed to life-saving initiatives, particularly in healthcare and humanitarian aid, despite challenges faced by some NGOs.
- On the issue of deportation, Mills stated that repatriated Nigerians would be returned to Lagos, with no consideration for alternative destinations like Port Harcourt or Abuja. He explained that the first group of deportees would include convicted criminals and individuals who have violated U.S. immigration laws, some of whom had their appeals denied.
Mills reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to enhancing trade relations with Nigeria, stating, “This administration will focus more on trade and commerce to sustain our strong relationship.”
The ambassador also expressed concerns about democracy in Africa, the withdrawal of three Sahel countries from ECOWAS, and the ongoing fight against terrorism in the region. He reiterated the U.S. government’s support for democratic governance and regional stability.
