…says many Nigerian deportees breached immigration or local laws in host countries

• Dabiri-led NIDCOM now partnering agencies to tackle trafficking, exploitation

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has issued a stern warning to Nigerians living overseas to comply strictly with the laws of their host countries, cautioning that failure to do so is the primary reason behind the rising wave of deportations among the diaspora.

Chairperson and CEO of NIDCOM, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, disclosed in an interview on Saturday that many Nigerians being deported have breached immigration or local laws in their host countries, resulting in their expulsion and significant personal hardship.

“Those who find themselves in trouble overseas usually do so because they have violated the laws of the countries they reside in. It is important for Nigerians abroad to understand that we cannot protect wrongdoers,” she said.

According to her, the Commission is intensifying efforts to educate Nigerians about the importance of lawful behaviour while abroad. “Through extensive awareness campaigns both within Nigeria and online, NIDCOM hopes to reduce the number of cases involving illegal stays, visa overstays and other offences.”

Dabiri-Erewa explained that NIDCOM works closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Nigerian embassies around the world, ensuring that consular services and legal assistance are available to Nigerians in distress, especially those wrongly accused or unfairly treated.

“We have partnerships with international organisations such as the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), which assist in protecting Nigerians in distress. However, any engagement with foreign governments is conducted through our embassies,” she added.

She noted that leveraging technology remains a key part of the Commission’s strategy. “The newly formed Technology Transfer and Innovation department ensures rapid communication and support to Nigerians in the diaspora via digital platforms, offering timely updates and legal assistance.”

In addition, Dabiri-Erewa said NIDCOM organises programmes such as National Diaspora Day, the Diaspora Investment Summit and quarterly webinars aimed at empowering Nigerians abroad with information, investment opportunities and a sense of community.

“While the Commission recognises its limited statutory powers, it remains committed to providing a strong support system for law-abiding Nigerians overseas. It also offers reintegration support to deportees through skills acquisition and entrepreneurship programmes to help them rebuild their lives.

“We urge all Nigerians abroad to be good ambassadors of their country by respecting the laws and culture of their host nations. This is the only way to protect themselves and preserve Nigeria’s image globally,” Dabiri-Erewa concluded.