FG URGES HUMANE DEPORTATION PROCESS AS U.S PLANS TO REPATRIATE 85 NIGERIANS

The Federal Government (FG) has called on the United States to ensure a dignified and orderly deportation process for Nigerian immigrants facing repatriation.

The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made the appeal in Abuja on Sunday after a meeting with U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr.

In a statement issued by her Special Assistant on Communication and New Media, Magnus Eze, Odumegwu-Ojukwu raised concerns over the possible suspension of the U.S. Drop Box Visa System and the impact of deportations on affected individuals and their families.

“With the new U.S. administration, we want commitments. If deportation must happen, it should be dignified,” she stated.

She revealed that 201 Nigerians are currently in U.S. immigration detention, with 85 already approved for deportation.

“Will they be given time to settle their affairs, or will they simply be bundled onto planes?” she asked, stressing the emotional and financial strain deportation imposes on families back home.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu urged the U.S. government to handle deportations humanely and to reconsider suspending the Drop Box Visa Policy, which facilitates visa renewal without in-person interviews.

She also requested an official U.S. statement to clarify the status of the policy, noting that over 14,000 Nigerian students are currently studying in the U.S., with their families concerned about possible visa restrictions.

On USAID operations in Nigeria, she acknowledged growing uncertainty but urged continued support for humanitarian and development projects.

In response, Ambassador Mills clarified that the Drop Box Visa System has not been suspended but is under review as part of the U.S. administration’s policy adjustments.

Regarding deportation, he confirmed that the repatriated individuals, including convicted criminals and immigration law violators, would be returned to Lagos, with no plans to consider alternative locations like Port Harcourt or Abuja.

Mills reaffirmed the U.S. government’s commitment to strengthening trade relations with Nigeria and continuing humanitarian efforts through USAID, despite challenges faced by some non-governmental organizations (NGOs).