400 Nigerians Deported from UAE Arrive in Abuja Amid Diplomatic Talks
A group of 400 Nigerians, comprising 90 females and 310 males, have been deported from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Wednesday.
The deportees were received by officials from various government agencies, including the Office of the National Security Adviser, the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, and the National Emergency Management Agency.
The deportation came amid ongoing diplomatic discussions between Nigeria and the UAE, which have been working to resolve issues related to visa restrictions and revenue repatriation.
The UAE had imposed a visa ban on Nigerians nearly two years ago, citing various diplomatic disputes, including the non-repatriation of revenue earned by UAE airlines in Nigeria.
However, in July 2024, the UAE government announced that it had lifted the visa restrictions imposed on Nigerians, following negotiations with the Nigerian government. The Nigerian government had assured its citizens that the visa ban would soon be lifted, after paying 98% of the estimated $850 million owed to the UAE.
Despite the progress made in resolving the diplomatic disputes, the deportation of the 400 Nigerians may be related to various factors, including immigration violations, expired visas, or other undisclosed issues. The Nigerian government and relevant agencies are working to assist the deportees upon their return, providing them with necessary support and resources.
The deportees were reportedly deported for various reasons, including overstaying their visas, working without permits, and engaging in illegal activities. The Nigerian government has urged its citizens to respect the laws and regulations of host countries and to ensure they have the necessary documentation before traveling abroad.
The ongoing diplomatic talks between Nigeria and the UAE are expected to continue, with both countries working to strengthen their bilateral relations and resolve any outstanding issues.