THE Federal Government of Nigeria has congratulated Donald Trump on his inauguration as the 47th President of the United States of America.
In a statement issued by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria emphasized the strong and historic ties between the two nations, highlighting their shared cooperation in areas such as promoting good governance, sustainable development, and combating terrorism and violent extremism.
Nigeria expressed its commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with the United States under President Trump’s leadership, aiming to advance the interests and well-being of citizens from both countries. The statement also conveyed Nigeria’s eagerness to continue collaborating with the US in addressing global challenges and fostering mutual growth.
Meanwhile, Nigerians living in the US have been reassured that large-scale deportation efforts are unlikely to materialize, despite expectations of stricter immigration policies. Experts cite constitutional and logistical challenges as significant barriers to such actions.
Obed Monago, Chairman Emeritus of Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation Americas, emphasized that the US Constitution does not permit mass deportations through executive orders, and that such measures require Congressional approval.
Additionally, concerns have been raised about the potential impact of Trump’s policies on Nigerians, particularly those with undocumented status or holding visitor or business visas. Chief Azuka Aghenu, a Nigerian technocrat living in Minnesota, advised Nigerians to avoid engaging in illegal activities and to be cautious of stricter enforcement policies.
In response to Trump’s executive order seeking to end birthright citizenship, Democrat-led states and civil rights groups have filed lawsuits challenging the order. The lawsuits argue that the order violates the 14th Amendment’s Citizenship Clause, which affirms that anyone born in the United States is a citizen.