‎U.S. expands deportation list, seeks removal of 18 more Nigerians

Washington, D.C. —February 10, 2026– The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced plans to deport an additional 18 Nigerian nationals as part of its ongoing immigration enforcement efforts targeting non-citizens convicted of serious crimes.
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‎According to the latest update from DHS, the 18 Nigerians have been added to the so-called “worst-of-the-worst” criminal register — a list of foreign nationals with significant criminal convictions that the U.S. government is prioritizing for removal.
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‎With the new additions, the total number of Nigerians scheduled for deportation has risen to 97. This expansion comes just days after authorities named 79 other Nigerians earlier this month under the same initiative.
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‎Many of the newly listed individuals are accused of offences including wire fraud, mail fraud and identity theft, according to the updated DHS records. U.S. officials have described the move as part of a nationwide strategy to remove foreign criminals and protect public safety.
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‎In a statement accompanying the list update, DHS reiterated that enforcement teams are focused on carrying out deportations of convicted offenders. “Under Secretary Noem’s leadership, the hardworking men and women of DHS and ICE are fulfilling President Trump’s promise by carrying out mass deportations, starting with the worst of the worst,” the agency said.
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‎The increasing number of Nigerians on the deportation list reflects a broader intensification of U.S. immigration actions. Recent enforcement operations have targeted non-citizens with criminal records, drawing attention from media and diplomatic circles alike.
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