The Nigerian government has announced plans to receive and reintegrate Nigerian deportees from the United States following the enforcement of President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown.
Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, revealed that the government is fully prepared to support the affected individuals, with arrangements in place to ease their transition back into the Nigerian society.
Approximately 3,690 Nigerians are at risk of deportation as U.S. authorities intensify efforts to address illegal immigration. Tunji-Ojo assured that the government is committed to assisting deportees in reuniting with their families and rebuilding their lives.
In a significant move, the federal government has secured a specialized facility at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos to provide mental health support for deportees experiencing psychological distress, including depression and mental fatigue.
“Well, it’s our responsibility to manage our migration policies and, of course, our borders. We’ll do what we need to do. We’re a government elected to serve the Nigerian state and the people. We’re a responsible government and we understand what we need to do. Rest assured that we’re not going to shy away from such responsibility,” Tunji-Ojo stated.
Highlighting ongoing efforts, he added, “We have a lot of facilities. We, in collaboration with the British Council, just came up with a centre in Lagos airport. I think it was commissioned in December. And, of course, it is to be able to give them support, welcome them back and to let them know Nigeria is a country that cares. We need renewed hope on the premise of humanity and the foundation of care.”
Tunji-Ojo emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to Nigerians at home and abroad, stating, “We also understand that it’s about the people. Whether they are Nigerians here in the country or Nigerians in the diaspora, there’s only one president and that’s President Bola Tinubu. He’s not just the president of Nigeria for Nigerians all over the world and he will not shy away from the responsibility of the restoration of whatever he might do.”
The new facility is part of broader efforts to ensure that returning citizens receive the care, support, and opportunities needed to reintegrate successfully into Nigerian society
