AFTER Trump Vowed To Use Military To Deport Migrants, Chad Shocks Tinubu, Repatriates 600 Nigerians
In a bold declaration that has sparked heated debates, the United States President- elect has vowed to use military resources to carry out mass deportations of undocumented migrants.
This announcement comes amid heightened global discussions on immigration policies, coinciding with a significant development in Africa: the Chadian government has repatriated at least 600 Nigerians classified as irregular migrants.
The Chadian government recently expelled over 600 Nigerians, many of whom were allegedly engaged in street begging. This development was disclosed by Mr. Muhammed Barkindo, the Director- General of the Borno State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), on Monday in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State.
According to Barkindo, these individuals, primarily from Borno, Kano, Sokoto, and Kaduna states, had entered Chad without proper documentation and lived in precarious conditions. Irregular migrants, as defined by international standards, are individuals who cross borders or live in a country without necessary legal permissions.
This includes using fake documents, overstaying visas, or engaging in activities prohibited by their residency conditions. It is important to distinguish irregular migration from illegal immigration, as the former includes those seeking asylum through irregular means, which is not considered a crime under international law.
Chad’ s move sheds light on the long- standing migration issues facing Nigeria. Many of the repatriated Nigerians were fleeing conflict, particularly from the terrorism- ravaged Borno State. During the height of Boko Haram insurgency in 2019, thousands sought refuge in neighboring countries such as Chad and Cameroon. For many, however, life in Chad turned out to be far from a haven.
Reports indicate that these migrants lived in dire conditions and resorted to street begging for survival. This untenable situation prompted Chad to take action, repatriating them to Nigeria. Barkindo revealed that many of the migrants expressed a desire to return home due to the extreme hardship they faced abroad.
The Borno State Emergency Management Agency stepped in to assist the repatriated individuals. SEMA provided logistical support, food, and a sum of ₦10, 000 each to facilitate their journey back to their respective states. The agency is also profiling the returnees to ensure they receive adequate support and reintegration assistance.
