The United States has deported 85 Nigerians, who have now arrived in Lagos, while another 116 remain in detention. The Nigerian government has expressed concern over the process, calling for a fair and respectful treatment of those affected.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, revealed that about 201 Nigerians are being held in US immigration centers. She urged US authorities to follow international guidelines and ensure the deportees are treated with dignity. In a statement, she highlighted the emotional and financial impact on families in Nigeria, many of whom depend on their relatives abroad.
US officials confirmed that all deported Nigerians would be sent directly to Lagos. The first group included those who had served prison sentences and others found guilty of immigration violations. Some had tried to appeal their cases but were denied and ordered to leave.
The deportations are part of President Donald Trump’s tougher immigration policies, which aim to remove undocumented migrants. As more Nigerians face deportation, the federal government is urging the US to allow them time to settle their affairs before being forced to return.
