The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has called on the United States to follow established protocols when deporting immigrants from its territory.
This appeal was made in a statement on Sunday in Abuja, after a meeting with U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr., at the ministry.
In a communication released by her special assistant on communication and new media, Magnus Eze, Odumegwu-Ojukwu expressed her concerns regarding the potential suspension of the U.S. Drop Box Visa System.
She pointed out the emotional and financial hardships many Nigerians in the U.S. are experiencing since the new administration indicated its plans to deport specific groups of immigrants.
“With the new U.S. administration, we seek assurances. If deportation is necessary, it should be conducted with dignity,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu remarked.
She noted that approximately 201 Nigerians are currently held in U.S. immigration facilities, with around 85 already approved for deportation.
“Will they have the opportunity to manage their assets, or will they be hastily returned without notice?” she questioned, emphasizing the trauma that deportation can inflict.
She highlighted that deportation impacts not only those being sent back but also their families in Nigeria, who rely on their remittances for survival and education.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu stressed the importance of treating deported individuals with respect and allowing them to settle their affairs prior to their return.
Additionally, she urged the U.S. government to reconsider the suspension of the Drop Box Visa Policy, ensuring that legitimate travelers are not unduly inconvenienced during the visa application process.
The minister urged for an official statement from the U.S. to clarify its position on the Drop Box system, addressing the increasing concerns among Nigerians.
She highlighted that more than 14,000 Nigerian students are currently studying in the U.S., with their parents in Nigeria anxious about potential changes to student visa regulations.
On the topic of USAID’s uncertain future, she remarked, “While we cannot confirm a complete suspension, many NGOs are seeking clarity.”
She advocated for the continuation of USAID programs, emphasizing their critical role in tackling humanitarian challenges in Nigeria and throughout Africa.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu praised the post-COVID-19 trade relations between the two nations and encouraged investments in the mining sector, as well as the reactivation of the ‘Silent Secretariat’ for bilateral evaluations.
