The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has released an updated list of 124 Nigerians facing deportation as part of its ongoing immigration enforcement operations.
In a statement published on its website on Wednesday, the DHS said those listed had been placed on what it described as its “worst-of-the-worst” criminal register. While the agency published the names and photographs of those affected, it did not disclose when the deportations would begin or provide details of the offences for which they were convicted.
According to the department, the deportation exercise is being carried out by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and targets non-citizens convicted of serious crimes.
“The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is highlighting the worst of the worst criminal aliens arrested by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE),” the statement read. “Under DHS leadership, the hardworking men and women of DHS and ICE are fulfilling President Trump’s promise and carrying out mass deportations, starting with the worst of the worst.”
The published list includes dozens of Nigerians, among them Sunday Adediora, Marcus Unigwe, Emmanuel Mayegun Adeola, Ifeanyi Nwaozomudoh, Joshua Ineh, Kingsley Ariegwe, Christian Ogunghide, Okechukwu Okoronkwo, Chukwuemeka Okorie, Dennis Ofuoma and Oluchi Jennifer.
The move is part of a broader immigration crackdown launched after President Donald Trump returned to office on January 20, 2025. On his first day back in office, Trump signed executive orders declaring illegal immigration a national emergency and directing federal agencies to strengthen border security and accelerate the removal of undocumented migrants, particularly those considered threats to public safety and national security.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has defended the policy, saying the administration remains committed to enforcing immigration laws and deporting undocumented immigrants with criminal records.
The latest development comes amid increased scrutiny of Nigeria by the Trump administration. In June, the U.S. imposed partial visa restrictions on Nigerian citizens, citing concerns over identity management, information sharing, visa overstay rates and security screening.
