BERLIN – Germany’s government has announced a significant move to deport 14,000 Nigerian citizens residing within its borders. Chancellor Olaf Scholz pointed to a lack of proper identification as the primary reason for this drastic measure.
The Crux of the Matter
The issue came to the forefront during a meeting in Abuja between Chancellor Scholz and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu. Scholz highlighted that a large number of Nigerian nationals have been living in Germany under a ‘tolerated’ status, a limbo that prevents deportation but doesn’t offer a path to residency.
This status, affecting about 12,500 Nigerians, arises from the Nigerian government’s reluctance to reaccept individuals who lack necessary identification documents.
“We are prepared to collaborate in order to enhance migration,” Scholz stated, signaling a willingness to repatriate those who have maintained a clean record.
Rising Asylum Claims
Germany has noted a worrying trend: a surge in asylum claims from Nigerian citizens in 2023, with a low rate of acceptance. This has prompted the German government to take a firm stance on immigration laws and enforcement.
Bilateral Discussions
In the face of this impending action, President Tinubu hinted at a readiness to work together, with the proviso that returnees must be law-abiding citizens who can contribute positively to Nigerian society.
Countdown for the 14,000
The clock ticks for the Nigerian contingent in Germany. As Berlin enforces its rules, and Abuja weighs its options, the future of thousands hangs by a thread.
Stay with MandyNews.com for continued coverage on this developing story.
