The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has confirmed that 110 Nigerians are among 355 West African nationals slated for deportation as part of a broader enforcement operation. This makes Nigeria the country with the highest number of deportees from the sub-region under the initiative.
Deportation List Details
Under the "WOW" West Africa Operations Watch initiative, the DHS published names and photographs of all 355 individuals earmarked for removal. Nigeria accounts for 110 of those listed, trailing only Liberia with 94, and significantly ahead of Ghana with 30 and Senegal with 19. The list also includes 15 Cameroonians, 14 Gambians, 14 Ivorians, 12 Mauritanians, 11 Cape Verdeans, nine Burkinabes, eight Nigeriens, six Guineans, six Togolese, five Malians, and one each from Benin and Guinea-Bissau.
NIDCOM Response
Chairman and CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Abike Dabiri Erewa, has acknowledged the development and assured that the commission is monitoring the situation. The commission is expected to provide support and guidance to the affected individuals and their families.
The deportation list underscores the ongoing immigration enforcement efforts by the United States, targeting individuals who have violated immigration laws. The DHS has emphasized that the operation is part of a broader strategy to ensure compliance with U.S. immigration policies.
This development has raised concerns among Nigerian stakeholders about the welfare of deportees and the need for reintegration programs. NIDCOM has previously advocated for better treatment of Nigerians abroad and has worked on initiatives to assist returnees.
