Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mrs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has called on the United States to adhere to established protocols when deporting Nigerian immigrants.
The appeal follows a visit by U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr., to the Foreign Affairs Ministry in Abuja.
In a statement issued by her special assistant, Magnus Eze, Odumegwu-Ojukwu voiced concerns over the emotional and financial strain faced by many Nigerians amid the U.S. government’s planned deportations.
She revealed that 201 Nigerians are currently in U.S. immigration camps, with 85 already cleared for deportation.
“With the new U.S. administration, we want commitments. If deportation must happen, it should be dignified,” she stated.
She questioned whether deportees would be given time to manage their assets or simply sent back without preparation, warning of the distress this could cause to both individuals and their families in Nigeria who rely on remittances for survival and education.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also raised concerns about the potential suspension of the U.S. Drop Box Visa Policy, a system that facilitates visa renewals without interviews.
She urged the U.S. government to clarify its stance, stressing that genuine travellers should not be unduly burdened.
The minister further addressed uncertainties surrounding the future of U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) programmes in Nigeria. “We cannot confirm outright suspension, but many NGOs are anxious for clarification,” she said, urging continued support for humanitarian efforts in the country.
Responding to these concerns, Ambassador Mills clarified that the Drop Box Visa Policy had not been suspended but was under review as part of the new administration’s broader policy adjustments. He assured that USAID remains committed to life-saving initiatives in healthcare and humanitarian aid, though some NGOs were experiencing operational challenges.
On the issue of deportation, Mills confirmed that Nigerians repatriated from the U.S. would be returned to Lagos, with no alternative destinations such as Port Harcourt or Abuja being considered. “The first group will include convicted criminals and those who have violated U.S. immigration laws. Some appealed but were denied and must now leave,” he stated.
Mills also addressed broader geopolitical issues, expressing concerns about democracy in Africa, the withdrawal of three Sahel countries from ECOWAS, and ongoing efforts to combat terrorism.
Despite the tensions, both officials reaffirmed the strong trade ties between Nigeria and the U.S. Odumegwu-Ojukwu commended post-COVID-19 trade relations and encouraged further investments in mining and bilateral economic assessments.
Mills, in turn, reiterated the U.S. commitment to strengthening commercial ties, stating, “This administration will focus more on trade and commerce to sustain our strong relationship.”