The United States has begun deportation proceedings for Nigerian nationals, with 85 individuals set to arrive in Lagos, while 116 others remain in detention.

The Federal Government, through the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has raised concerns over the process, urging US authorities to adopt a more humane approach.

In a statement issued on Sunday by her media aide, Magnus Eze, Odumegwu-Ojukwu revealed that “with about 201 Nigerians currently detained in US immigration centers and 85 cleared for deportation,” the Nigerian government is advocating for adherence to internationally recognized procedures.

Lagos is the Sole Deportation Destination

The US has confirmed that all deported Nigerians will be flown directly to Lagos.

US official Mills clarified that individuals serving prison sentences in the US would be among the first deportees.

“The first group will be convicted prisoners—those who committed crimes and are in US prisons. Some have violated US immigration laws, appealed their cases, but were denied,” Mills stated.

“There will be no consideration for alternative destinations like Port Harcourt or Abuja—deportations will take place strictly through Lagos,” he added.

Nigeria’s Concerns Over Deportation Process

Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu has expressed deep concerns over the emotional and financial toll deportations take on affected individuals and their families. She emphasized the need for a structured and dignified process.

“With the new US administration, we are seeking commitments to ensure repatriations are carried out with dignity,” she said.

“At the moment, we are aware that 201 Nigerians are in immigration detention, and 85 are set for deportation. The question remains: Will they be given time to handle their assets, or will they be forcibly put on planes and sent back? This is particularly distressing for those who have not committed violent crimes,” she added.

The minister also highlighted the economic impact on families in Nigeria who rely on financial support from their relatives in the US, including children whose education is funded by deportees.

Trump’s Immigration Crackdown

This wave of deportations aligns with the broader immigration crackdown under President Donald Trump.

On his first day in office as the 47th President of the United States, Trump signed executive orders tightening immigration policies. These included ending birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants, declaring a national emergency at the US-Mexico border, and deploying additional troops to strengthen border security.

He also reaffirmed his pledge to deport millions of undocumented immigrants, a move that has intensified concerns within immigrant communities.

As the US ramps up deportation measures, the Nigerian government continues to push for fair and humane treatment of its nationals facing repatriation.