The Nigerian government has firmly stated it will not accept deportees sent from the United States, distancing itself from countries such as Rwanda, Eswatini, and South Sudan, which have agreed to receive foreign nationals expelled from the U.S.

Kimiebi Ebienfa, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, confirmed Nigeria’s refusal, citing concerns over national security and economic challenges facing the country.

In July, Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar revealed that the Trump administration is pressuring African nations to take deportees convicted of crimes in the U.S., including Venezuelans, under a “third-country deportation” policy. Tuggar called this demand unacceptable, noting Nigeria’s already large population and internal problems.

The U.S. recently changed its visa rules for Nigerians, issuing mostly single-entry visas valid for three months, part of efforts to tighten immigration control. The Trump administration has threatened visa restrictions on countries that do not cooperate with deportation efforts, as seen with South Sudan.

South Sudan was the first African country to accept deportees under this policy, followed by Eswatini and Rwanda. Rwanda agreed to accept up to 250 deportees and to provide support services to help them settle.

Despite these developments, Nigeria remains steadfast in its decision not to accept deportees, emphasizing its sovereignty and the need to prioritize its own security and economic interests.

Former diplomats have supported Nigeria’s position, questioning the logic of deporting nationals from one country to an unrelated nation and warning about the risks of admitting unknown individuals.