U.S. asks Africa to accept Venezuelan deportees, Nigeria resists under BRICS spotlight
At the recent BRICS summit in Brazil, Nigeria’s Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar accused the United States of coercing African countries into accepting deported Venezuelans, including ex‑convicts. Tuggar emphasized Nigeria’s internal difficulties—citing its 230-million population, economic strains, and security threats—as reasons for refusal.
Despite U.S. efforts to redistribute migrants who cannot be repatriated directly, Nigeria and other African nations are pushing back, labeling the policy as offloading responsibility without addressing root causes. The internal memo urging a “dignified, safe, and timely transfer” of migrants stirred strong debate among African diplomats.
This diplomatic friction highlights deeper tensions in U.S.-Africa relations, as Washington turns to alternative strategies under its strengthened migration control agenda. Many African countries view this as an infringement on sovereignty and a signal that the U.S. lacks coordinated international migration frameworks.
Analysts warn the escalating dispute could complicate cooperation on broader issues—like trade, security, and global health—if not managed through respectful multilateral dialogue.
Adedayo Obadina
Talksocialtalks
