Nigeria Rejects U.S. Pressure to Accept Venezuelan Deportees, Citing Sovereignty and Internal Challenges

In a firm stance on national sovereignty and immigration policy, Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, publicly rejected pressure from the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump to accept Venezuelan deportees. Speaking from Brazil during the BRICS summit, Tuggar emphasized that Nigeria would not serve as a dumping ground for migrants unrelated to its geopolitical obligations.

"It will be difficult for a country like Nigeria to accept Venezuelan prisoners into Nigeria. We have enough problems of our own," Tuggar stated, highlighting the nation's existing challenges and a population exceeding 230 million.

The U.S. administration has been seeking to expedite deportations by transferring migrants to alternative nations when direct repatriation is not feasible. An internal U.S. State Department document reportedly urged African governments to agree to a "dignified, safe, and timely transfer" of these individuals from the U.S.

Tuggar's remarks underscore Nigeria's commitment to maintaining its sovereignty and addressing domestic priorities without external imposition. The situation also reflects broader tensions between the U.S. and African nations concerning immigration policies and international cooperation.

Note: The information provided is based on available reports and statements as of July 2025. Further developments may have occurred since then.