The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has called on the U.S. government to follow established protocols and ensure a humane approach to deportations, as it prepares to deport 85 Nigerians.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu made the appeal on Sunday in Abuja after meeting with U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr., at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Minister expressed concerns over the potential suspension of the U.S. Drop Box Visa System, a process that many Nigerians rely on.
In a statement issued by her special assistant on communication, Magnus Eze, Odumegwu-Ojukwu acknowledged the financial and emotional toll that the new U.S. administration’s immigration policies have taken on Nigerians, especially as deportation plans move forward. “If deportation is necessary, it must be carried out with dignity,” she said.
She revealed that around 201 Nigerians are currently in U.S. immigration facilities, with 85 already approved for deportation. The Minister questioned whether those being deported would have time to settle their affairs or whether they would be forcibly returned without any opportunity to manage their assets.
Deportation, she emphasized, not only impacts the individuals involved but also their families in Nigeria, who rely on remittances for daily survival and education.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also urged the U.S. to reconsider the suspension of the Drop Box Visa Policy, noting its vital role for genuine travelers. She called for a clear statement from the U.S. government on the status of this system, as many Nigerians, including over 14,000 students in the U.S., are concerned about potential changes.
She further raised the issue of the future of USAID programs in Nigeria. While she could not confirm the outright suspension of U.S. aid, Odumegwu-Ojukwu highlighted the growing anxiety among non-governmental organizations (NGOs) about the lack of clarity on the matter. She stressed the importance of USAID in addressing Nigeria’s humanitarian needs and urged the continuation of these programs.
The Minister also commended the trade relations between Nigeria and the U.S. post-COVID-19 and encouraged further investments, particularly in mining, and the reactivation of the ‘Silent Secretariat’ for bilateral discussions.
In response, Ambassador Mills clarified that the Drop Box Visa Policy had not been suspended but was under review as part of the new U.S. administration’s policy changes. He assured that USAID would continue its humanitarian work, particularly in healthcare, although some NGOs were facing challenges due to shifting policies.
Mills also addressed concerns about the deportation process, stating that the first group of deportees would include convicted criminals and individuals who violated U.S. immigration laws. He confirmed that all deportees would be returned to Lagos, with no alternative destination options like Port Harcourt or Abuja.
He reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to strengthening trade relations with Nigeria, emphasizing that the administration would focus on fostering deeper trade and commercial ties.
