First of all, I must congratulate everyone who has fervently supported the Republic and president-elect, Donald J. Trump. I believe that everyone has their political preference and is free to choose who occupies the most important seat in the free world. However, my view focuses on how this choice affects the Black diaspora and our Nigerian brothers currently living in the United States.
My understanding is that the most significant factor affecting the Nigerian diaspora in Trump’s proposed policies is immigration. Being that America is a country influenced by prejudice and colorism, I believe Hispanics and people of African descent will suffer the most from Trump’s imigration policies. Here are the areas I believe would most affect Nigeria and its diaspora:
1. Economic Loss from Reduced Remittances
Remittances are a major economic lifeline for many families in Nigeria. In 2022, Nigeria received about $20 billion in remittances, much of which supports essential needs. A significant decrease would likely increase hardship, especially for families dependent on this support for basic necessities like education and healthcare. This could intensify poverty levels and reduce opportunities for upward mobility within Nigeria.
2. Pressure on Social and Economic Infrastructure
Large-scale deportations could create an immediate surge in demand for Nigeria’s already stretched infrastructure. The influx of returnees would intensify competition for limited resources, potentially worsening unemployment and overcrowding in urban centers. The strain on the healthcare system, housing market, and education would likely be severe, affecting both returnees and current residents.
3. Loss of Skilled Professionals
Nigerian immigrants in the U.S. often hold advanced qualifications and lead in fields such as technology and healthcare. Upon returning to Nigeria, many might find limited opportunities to match their skills, leading to underemployment or “brain waste.” While Nigeria could benefit from their expertise, an economy ill-equipped to support this skilled influx may lead to frustration among returnees and potentially trigger a secondary wave of emigration.
4. Political Implications
A high volume of deportations could complicate U.S.-Nigeria diplomatic relations, particularly if Nigeria is expected to reintegrate returnees. Programs to aid reintegration would require resources that Nigeria might struggle to allocate, given its current economic challenges. The Nigerian government could face internal and external pressure to address these challenges while striving to maintain diplomatic stability.
5. Social Impact on Returnees
For many returnees, reintegrating into Nigerian society could present cultural and economic challenges. Some may feel disconnected or stigmatized, which could bring about mental health issues and social tension, particularly if they struggle to find meaningful employment or rebuild their lives.
Ethnic Deportations in History
Throughout U.S. history, legal immigrants from specific ethnic groups or countries have been targeted for deportation during periods of political, racial, or national security concerns. For instance, the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 led to the removal of Chinese immigrants who were seen as competitors to white workers. During World War II, Japanese Americans were interned as potential threats to national security, while Germans were largely left alone despite the war with Germany. Similarly, in the 1980s, Mexicans and Haitians were deported en masse, driven by racial prejudices and political rhetoric.
The removal of 10 to 20 million Americans under new hardline conservative legislation would disproportionately affect people of African descent, with a significant number being Nigerians. It is crucial to note that history has shown that being a legal resident does not shield anyone from deportation under certain exigent policies in the past.
A Global Shift in Immigration Stance
Trump’s immigration policies may inspire similar moves globally. Viktor Orbán of Hungary has already taken a firm stand against immigration from Africa and the Middle East. Countries like Italy, France, and Greece could follow suit, engaging in what some may call “ethnic engineering.”
As the initial euphoria over Trump’s political comeback fades, we must ask ourselves: What advantage do we gain from the deportation of Africans while welcoming European migration? How does this strengthen our institutions, our economies, or our dignity?
By OOO‼️
OBLONG MEDIA UNLIMITED 
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