ABUJA – Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has firmly rejected a request from the United States government urging Nigeria to receive Venezuelan deportees, many of whom are reported to be ex-convicts.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, Tuggar described the U.S. demand as "unfair" and cautioned that accepting such a request could open the door to future, more troubling demands. “Nigeria has enough problems of its own,” he stated pointedly, making it clear that the country would not serve as a dumping ground for foreign convicts under any guise.
The minister's remarks come amid ongoing diplomatic engagements between Nigeria and the U.S., particularly surrounding immigration and visa issues. Addressing reports of alleged U.S. visa restrictions on Nigerians, Tuggar dismissed claims that they stemmed from Nigeria’s own visa policies. He emphasized that Nigeria has continued to issue long-term visas to Americans without discrimination.
“We continue to issue five-year multiple entry visas to American citizens. There is no deliberate act of reciprocity or friction on our side,” he said.
Tuggar reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to diplomatic dialogue and mutual respect in its international relations, adding that the country is actively engaging with the U.S. government to resolve any misunderstandings.
The minister's comments underscore a growing sense of national assertiveness in Nigeria’s foreign policy, as the country navigates complex global expectations while prioritizing its own domestic interests.