The deportation process for 85 Nigerians held in United States camps 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 scheduled deportation from the U.S. is not directly connected to President Donald Trump’s renewed measures against undocumented immigrants.
Dabiri-Erewa explained that while these individuals remain in U.S. deportation camps awaiting repatriation, their cases are part of “routine immigration enforcement” rather than politically motivated actions.
Her statement comes amid increasing concerns regarding the treatment of Nigerian deportees and the bureaucratic delays prolonging their return.
She pointed out that several Nigerians in these facilities remain stranded, experiencing 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,” she told BusinessDay Newspapers.
She urged authorities to ensure deportees receive humane treatment, emphasizing that migration should not be criminalized.
She further stated that for those with “criminal records” or in need of “employment and skill acquisition,” necessary reintegration measures would be implemented upon their return.
The NiDCOM CEO highlighted Nigeria’s interagency collaboration—including the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Immigration, and other relevant bodies—aimed at ensuring the smooth reintegration of returnees.
Beyond deportation concerns, Dabiri-Erewa also raised alarms about the increasing number of Nigerians stranded in countries like Iraq and Libya due to “human trafficking and irregular migration.”
She called for stricter action against traffickers who deceive individuals into dangerous conditions abroad.
Olusola Taiwo, a public affairs analyst, suggested that ongoing diplomatic discussions between Nigeria and the U.S. could be contributing to the deportation delays.
He noted that factors such as “flight availability, diplomatic agreements, and enforcement strategies” might be influencing the U.S. government’s approach to repatriation.
Despite the U.S. initiating deportation proceedings against thousands of undocumented immigrants three weeks ago, Nigeria has yet to receive any of its affected citizens.
Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Acting Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, provided no new updates when contacted by BusinessDay. “No update for now,” he stated regarding the arrival of deported Nigerians.
According to data from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), at least “3,690 Nigerians” currently face deportation under Trump’s intensified immigration policies. Since returning to office on January 20, 2025, Trump has signed executive orders reversing many of his predecessor’s immigration reforms, leading to widespread crackdowns on undocumented migrants, including thousands of Nigerians.
As anxiety grows over the impending deportations, the Nigerian government has announced measures to support returning citizens, particularly those dealing with 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 our migration policies and, of course, 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 discussions with the U.S. regarding the treatment of affected individuals.
Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, recently voiced concerns about the conditions in which Nigerians are being held and the deportation process.
During a meeting with Richard Mills Jr., U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, she called for a humane repatriation process that ensures deportees are treated with dignity and given adequate time to settle their affairs before being forced to return.
“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 process that aligns with international conventions and minimizes trauma for those affected.
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