Nigeria Rejects U.S. Request to Accept Venezuelan Deportees — Tuggar Cites Security Concerns

Nigeria has firmly declined a request by the United States to accept deported Venezuelan nationals, some of whom were recently released from American prisons. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, made this disclosure during a media interview, stating that the move would compromise Nigeria’s security and social stability. He stressed that the individuals in question had no connection to Nigeria, and it would be irresponsible to allow them into the country under any pretense.

Tuggar further explained that the pressure from the U.S. was part of a broader strategy aimed at relocating foreign nationals with criminal records to African countries. He revealed that Nigeria had been asked to accept about 300 Venezuelan deportees, which he believes could set a dangerous precedent. “This might just be the beginning,” he warned, adding that Nigeria cannot and will not serve as a dumping ground for convicts with no ties to the country.

The minister also addressed the rising diplomatic tension between Nigeria and the United States. He acknowledged that the recent U.S. visa restrictions and tariff increases on Nigerian exports may be politically motivated but clarified that Nigeria's position was based purely on national interest. Tuggar noted that while Nigeria remains open to strong bilateral relations, it will not compromise its sovereignty or internal security to appease any nation.