Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Urges Dignified Deportation Process for 85 Nigerians from the US
Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, recently met with US Ambassador Richard Mills Jr. in Abuja to discuss the planned deportation of 85 Nigerians from the United States. During the meeting, Odumegwu-Ojukwu appealed for a dignified process for the affected individuals, emphasizing the importance of giving them sufficient time to organize their personal affairs before being deported. She also raised concerns about the emotional and economic impact on families who rely on remittances from their relatives in the US.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu further expressed worries about the potential suspension of the Drop Box Visa System, which streamlines the travel process for genuine applicants. She also highlighted uncertainties surrounding the future of USAID’s operations in Nigeria. In response, Ambassador Mills clarified that the Drop Box policy is currently under review, not suspended, and reassured that USAID remains committed to supporting healthcare and humanitarian initiatives in the country.
Ambassador Mills disclosed that the repatriated Nigerians would be arriving in Lagos, with the first batch likely to include individuals with criminal convictions or those who have violated US immigration laws.
It is crucial for the deportation process to be handled with dignity and compassion, considering the impact it will have on the lives of the affected individuals and their families. Odumegwu-Ojukwu’s plea for a respectful and organized deportation process reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding the well-being of its citizens, even in challenging situations like this.
Source: Nairametrics
