Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has asked the U.S. to treat Nigerian immigrants fairly during deportations. Speaking after a meeting with U.S. Ambassador Richard Mills Jr., she stressed that deportations should allow people time to handle their affairs and avoid “trauma.” She noted that 201 Nigerians are in U.S. immigration camps, with 85 set to be deported. Many families in Nigeria rely on money sent by relatives abroad, she added, urging the U.S. not to abruptly suspend its Drop Box Visa system, which simplifies visa renewals for travelers like students. Over 14,000 Nigerian students study in the U.S., and their families fear policy changes.
Ambassador Mills clarified the Drop Box system is under review but not canceled. He said deportations will focus on convicted criminals or those who broke immigration laws, with flights only to Lagos, not other cities. Mills assured that USAID programs supporting healthcare and aid in Nigeria will continue, though some NGOs face delays. He also mentioned U.S. concerns about democracy and terrorism in Africa, as well as three Sahel nations leaving ECOWAS.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu praised U.S.-Nigeria trade growth post-COVID and pushed for investments in mining and reviving a joint business council. She urged the U.S. to publicly explain its visa and deportation plans to ease worries. Meanwhile, the U.S. reiterated its focus on boosting trade ties, calling Nigeria a key partner. The talks highlighted tensions over immigration rules but shared goals for stronger economic cooperation.