Nigerians/ US – The deportation process for 85 Nigerians detained in the United States has yet to commence despite deportation orders being issued, according to Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM).
She clarified that their planned deportation is not a direct result of President Donald Trump’s renewed immigration crackdown but rather part of routine immigration enforcement. However, she acknowledged that many of them remain stranded, facing prolonged uncertainty.
“A migrant is not a criminal; they were merely seeking a better life. If they must return, the process should be handled with dignity and respect,” Dabiri-Erewa told BusinessDay Newspapers. She urged authorities to ensure humane treatment for deportees and emphasized the need for reintegration measures for returnees, particularly those with criminal records or employment challenges.
Nigeria’s interagency collaboration, involving the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Immigration, and other relevant bodies, is working to facilitate the reintegration of deported citizens.
Beyond deportation concerns, she also raised alarms over the increasing number of Nigerians stranded in Iraq and Libya due to human trafficking and irregular migration. She called for stricter measures against traffickers luring individuals into dangerous conditions abroad.
Public affairs analyst Olusola Taiwo suggested that diplomatic discussions between Nigeria and the United States might be contributing to deportation delays. He pointed to factors such as flight availability, diplomatic agreements, and enforcement strategies affecting the U.S. government’s approach to repatriations.
Although the U.S. began deportation proceedings against thousands of undocumented immigrants three weeks ago, Nigeria has yet to receive any affected citizens. Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Acting Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that there were no updates regarding the arrival of deported Nigerians.
According to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) data, at least 3,690 Nigerians face deportation under Trump’s intensified immigration policies. Since returning to office on January 20, 2025, Trump has signed executive orders reversing previous immigration reforms, leading to widespread crackdowns on undocumented migrants, including thousands of Nigerians.
As anxiety mounts, the Nigerian government has announced support measures for returning citizens, particularly those facing mental distress. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Minister of Interior, confirmed that a facility has been set up at Lagos airport to assist deportees upon arrival.
“It’s our responsibility to manage migration policies and our borders. We’re a responsible government and understand what we need to do. Rest assured that we’re not going to shy away from such responsibility,” Tunji-Ojo stated.
The delay in deportations has also been linked to Nigeria’s negotiations with the U.S. over the treatment of affected individuals. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, recently raised concerns over the conditions in which Nigerians are being held and called for a humane repatriation process.
During a meeting with U.S. Ambassador Richard Mills Jr., she emphasized the need for commitments ensuring that deportees receive dignified treatment and adequate time to settle their affairs before returning.
“With the new administration in the U.S., we want a situation where there will be commitments. If there will be repatriation, we want dignified return,” she stated.
According to Odumegwu-Ojukwu, 201 Nigerian nationals are currently in U.S. immigration detention centers, with 85 already cleared for deportation.
The Nigerian government is advocating for a repatriation process that aligns with international conventions while minimizing trauma for those affected.
By Damilola Adeleke| March 13, 2025
Adeleke Damilola (ACTION) is a versatile content writer with expertise in news writing and a seasoned media professional and broadcast specialist. Currently serving as News Editor for DNews Info, Damilola is also the CEO of the ACTION brand, committed to shaping lives and establishing a legacy of excellence for present and future generations.
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