Nigeria maintains its opposition to welcoming people deported from the United States, said Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He emphasized that the country, already facing heavy socio-economic challenges, could not take on an “additional burden.”
In an interview with the Saturday Punch newspaper on August 9, Mr. Ebienfa insisted that no American pressure would persuade Abuja to accept certain deported foreigners, especially those coming directly from prison. “Even if other African countries do it, Nigeria will not accept them,” he said.
This position contrasts with that of Rwanda, Eswatini, or South Sudan, which have recently agreed to welcome nationals deported by Washington. Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar denounced the pressure to get Nigeria to accept these individuals, particularly Venezuelans who have served prison sentences, calling this policy “unacceptable.”
Last month, Mr. Tuggar already pointed out that with over 200 million inhabitants, Nigeria could not accommodate foreign deportees, especially if they are suspected of criminal activities. He believes that giving in on this issue would further complicate relations with Washington and set a dangerous precedent for future deportations.
