The United States has listed 201 Nigerians for deportation as part of a crackdown on illegal immigration, with convicted criminals and immigration law violators among those affected.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed the development during a meeting with the US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, in Abuja. She expressed concern over the fate of those facing deportation, particularly individuals who have not committed violent crimes.
According to Odumegwu-Ojukwu, 85 Nigerians have already been cleared for repatriation, prompting discussions on whether they would be given time to settle their affairs before deportation. She emphasised the emotional and financial impact on their families, especially those dependent on them for survival.
The planned deportation coincides with the US government’s suspension of the Drop Box Visa System, which may complicate visa applications for Nigerians.
The minister urged the US to clarify its stance on the policy and consider its implications on Nigerians traveling for legitimate purposes.
She also raised concerns about potential changes to the US student visa policy, affecting over 14,000 Nigerian students currently in the country.
Additionally, she sought reassurances regarding the future of USAID operations in Nigeria, warning that disruptions could have severe humanitarian consequences.
In response, Ambassador Mills stated that deportations would take place in Lagos, with priority given to convicted criminals and individuals who had violated immigration laws despite exhausting their appeals. He assured that the US government would clarify its position on the visa policy and USAID’s operations soon.
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