Approximately 3,690 Nigerians in the United States are currently facing deportation as part of a broader crackdown on illegal immigration under President Donald Trump’s administration.
According to a report by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Enforcement and Removal Operations, the data details the number of individuals at risk of deportation by nationality.
The report, titled “Noncitizens on the ICE Non-Detained Docket with Final Orders of Removal by Country of Citizenship,” shows that, as of November 24, 2024, there are over 1.4 million non-citizens on ICE’s non-detained docket with final removal orders. Mexico and El Salvador are the two countries with the highest number of individuals facing deportation, with 252,044 and 203,822 cases, respectively.
ICE is tasked with protecting U.S. national security by addressing cross-border crime and illegal immigration. Recently, in line with Trump’s hardline stance on immigration, there was a mass arrest of migrants, with some deported on military aircraft.
Many Nigerians and other African immigrants in the U.S. are now fearful of being targeted for deportation as part of Trump’s ongoing efforts to curb illegal immigration. On his first day as president, Trump signed executive orders aimed at strengthening immigration policies, including revoking birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants.
The deportation initiative has garnered international attention. In a related development, President Gustavo Petro of Colombia initially refused to allow U.S. military planes to transport deported migrants to Colombia, citing concerns over inhumane treatment. This led to a diplomatic standoff, with Trump threatening sanctions and tariffs against Colombia. Ultimately, after negotiations, Colombia agreed to allow the deportations, ensuring dignified conditions for those being returned.
This conflict highlights the complex and contentious nature of international cooperation on immigration enforcement, with both countries ultimately reaching a compromise after a series of escalating measures and countermeasures.
