Eighty-five Nigerians awaiting deportation from the United States remain stranded in detention facilities despite clearance for their return, according to Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM).
Dabiri-Erewa clarified that the planned deportation of these individuals is not directly linked to President Donald Trump’s renewed immigration policies but rather a part of routine enforcement by U.S. authorities. She stressed that while the situation is concerning, it should not be mistaken for politically motivated action.
Growing Concerns Over Stranded Deportees
The delay in deportation has raised concerns among Nigerians, especially as those affected face uncertainty and prolonged detention. Reports suggest that bureaucratic bottlenecks, diplomatic discussions, and logistical factors may be contributing to the delay.
Dabiri-Erewa expressed concerns over the conditions in which these Nigerians are being held and called for a humane approach to their repatriation. “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 said in an interview with BusinessDay Newspapers.
She further stated that NiDCOM, in collaboration with relevant government agencies, is working on plans to reintegrate deported Nigerians, particularly those in need of employment or skill acquisition. The Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Immigration, and other key stakeholders are involved in these efforts.
U.S. Immigration Crackdown and Nigerian Deportees
According to the latest data from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), at least 3,690 Nigerians are facing deportation due to recent crackdowns on undocumented immigrants. Since returning to office on January 20, 2025, President Trump has reinstated strict immigration policies, reversing many of his predecessor’s reforms.
Three weeks ago, the U.S. government began initiating deportation proceedings for thousands of undocumented immigrants. However, Nigeria has yet to receive any of its affected citizens, despite the clearance of 85 Nigerians for repatriation.
The delay has been attributed to various factors, including flight availability, diplomatic agreements, and enforcement strategies. Some analysts believe that ongoing negotiations between Nigeria and the U.S. regarding the treatment of deportees may also be contributing to the situation.
Public affairs analyst Olusola Taiwo suggested that these discussions could be influencing the pace of deportations. “Diplomatic talks often play a role in such situations. The Nigerian government may be engaging the U.S. on how to ensure a smooth and dignified repatriation process,” he said.
Nigerian Government’s Response
In response to the growing concerns, the Nigerian government has announced measures to assist returning citizens. Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo confirmed that a facility has been set up at Lagos airport to receive deportees and provide necessary support.
“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.
Additionally, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu has been engaging with U.S. officials to address concerns about the treatment of Nigerians in detention. During a meeting with U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr., she advocated for a repatriation process that upholds international standards and allows deportees to return with dignity.
“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.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also disclosed that 201 Nigerians are currently in U.S. immigration detention centers, with 85 already approved for deportation. She emphasized the need for a process that minimizes trauma for the affected individuals.
Rising Cases of Nigerians Stranded Abroad
Beyond the U.S. deportation concerns, NiDCOM has also raised alarms over the increasing number of Nigerians stranded in countries such as Iraq and Libya due to human trafficking and irregular migration. Dabiri-Erewa has called for stricter measures against traffickers who lure individuals into dangerous conditions abroad.
She urged young Nigerians to be cautious about seeking greener pastures through illegal means, warning that many who fall victim to trafficking end up facing hardship and exploitation. “We need to educate our people about the dangers of irregular migration. Many who embark on these journeys are deceived by traffickers and end up stranded in hostile environments,” she said.
The Human Cost of Deportation
The delay in the deportation of these 85 Nigerians highlights broader issues surrounding migration, enforcement policies, and the treatment of deportees. Many of those affected left Nigeria in search of better opportunities but now find themselves stuck in a legal and bureaucratic limbo.
For those returning, reintegration into Nigerian society poses another challenge. Many deportees face stigma, financial hardship, and difficulty in finding employment. The Nigerian government’s plan to support returnees through reintegration programs will be a crucial step in helping them rebuild their lives.
As the deportation process drags on, anxiety continues to mount among the affected individuals and their families. The Nigerian government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their migration status, are treated with dignity and given the necessary support upon their return.
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