The United States is set to deport 201 Nigerians currently held in immigration detention centres as part of President Donald Trump’s strict immigration policy.
Of this number, 85 have been cleared for immediate removal.
U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr., confirmed that some of the deportees include individuals serving prison sentences in the U.S.
He stated that all repatriated Nigerians would be taken to Lagos, though no specific timeline was provided.
Speaking during a meeting with Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Mills reiterated the U.S. government’s commitment to removing undocumented immigrants, a policy that has already affected citizens of Colombia, Mexico, and India.
He clarified that deportees include those who violated immigration laws, lost their appeals, and remained in the U.S. unlawfully.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu called for humane treatment of deported Nigerians, expressing concern over reports that some are restrained with handcuffs during repatriation.
She urged the U.S. to adhere to international deportation conventions and ensure that affected individuals are given adequate time to manage their assets before returning home.
The minister also highlighted the economic and emotional toll on families in Nigeria who depend on remittances from relatives in the U.S.
She emphasized that a structured and dignified deportation process was necessary to mitigate the impact on affected individuals and their dependents.
On broader U.S.-Nigeria relations, Mills addressed concerns about the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and assured that the Trump administration remained focused on trade and commerce.
He also clarified that the Drop Box Visa Policy had not been suspended, noting that administrative changes were under review.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu raised concerns about potential changes to U.S. student visa policies, affecting approximately 14,000 Nigerian students in American institutions.
She also sought clarity on the future of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in Nigeria, given ongoing humanitarian needs.
The minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic ties with the U.S.
She underscored the importance of addressing illegal migration and fostering strategic partnerships to tackle unemployment, a key driver of migration.
Mills assured that the U.S. remains committed to its relationship with Nigeria, promising further updates on immigration policies and bilateral agreements in due course.