The Federal Government has confirmed that 201 Nigerians are currently in the custody of US authorities, pending deportation.
However, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the specific date and time for their deportation have not yet been communicated.
Kimiebi Ebienfa, the acting spokesperson for the ministry, explained that according to diplomatic protocol, any intention to deport Nigerians must be officially communicated to the Nigerian Embassy in Washington, DC.
He further clarified, “While 201 Nigerians are in US custody awaiting deportation, the deportation date and time are yet to be communicated. There is no way they can be deported without notifying the embassy.”
Ebienfa also highlighted the collaboration required between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Nigerian Immigration Service, the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission to facilitate the deportees’ return and reintegration into Nigerian society.
“Special flights for deportation require permits from Nigeria, and we must verify that all deportees are indeed Nigerians,” he added.
The government is closely monitoring the situation and assured that it would take the necessary steps to ensure the well-being of its citizens upon their return.