By Muhammad Mamman
The United States government is set to deport 19 additional Nigerian nationals identified on its “worst of the worst” criminal list, according to officials familiar with the development.
The individuals, whose names have not yet been publicly disclosed, were reportedly convicted of serious criminal offences in the US and have completed their respective prison sentences. Authorities say their removal forms part of Washington’s broader immigration enforcement strategy targeting non-citizens convicted of grave crimes.
US immigration authorities maintain that deportation proceedings in such cases follow established legal processes, including court rulings and immigration reviews. The category described as “worst of the worst” typically refers to individuals convicted of violent crimes, organised criminal activity, large-scale fraud or drug-related offences.
Nigerian diplomatic sources in Washington confirmed awareness of the impending deportations, noting that relevant agencies in Abuja have been notified in line with bilateral agreements on consular affairs and repatriation.
Under international practice, deported nationals are received by their home country upon completion of documentation and verification procedures. Nigerian authorities are expected to profile the returnees and determine any further legal or rehabilitation measures in accordance with domestic laws.
The development comes amid intensified US immigration enforcement efforts, with federal agencies prioritising the removal of non-citizens deemed to pose public safety risks.
Analysts say the move may prompt renewed discussions between Abuja and Washington on migration management, criminal justice cooperation and reintegration frameworks for returning nationals.
Neither the United States Department of Homeland Security nor the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs had issued a detailed public statement at the time of reporting.
