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The Nigerian government has urged the United States to adhere to established protocols when deporting Nigerian immigrants, emphasizing the need for dignity and respect in the process. The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made this appeal during a meeting with U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr., in Abuja. She expressed concern over the potential suspension of the U.S. Drop Box Visa System, which could cause emotional and financial distress for many Nigerians in the U.S.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu highlighted the plight of approximately 201 Nigerians currently held in U.S. immigration camps, with about 85 already cleared for deportation. She questioned whether deportees would be given time to manage their assets or simply "bundled onto planes and sent back," stressing the trauma such actions could cause. The minister also noted the broader impact on families in Nigeria who rely on remittances for survival and education.
The minister urged the U.S. to reconsider plans to suspend the Drop Box Visa Policy, warning that it would burden genuine visa applicants. She also raised concerns about the future of U.S. student visa policies, given the over 14,000 Nigerian students studying in the U.S., and called for continued support for USAID programs in Nigeria and Africa.
In response, Ambassador Mills clarified that the Drop Box Visa Policy was under review but not suspended. He assured that USAID remains committed to supporting humanitarian initiatives in Nigeria. Mills also confirmed that deportations would focus on convicted criminals and immigration law violators, with deportees being returned to Lagos.
The meeting underscored the importance of maintaining strong U.S.-Nigeria relations, particularly in trade and commerce. Both parties expressed a commitment to addressing concerns while fostering mutual cooperation in areas such as education, healthcare, and economic development.
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