President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has appealed to the German government to reconsider its decision to deport approximately 12,000 illegal migrants to Nigeria.
The Senator expressed concern that such a move could exacerbate existing security challenges in the country.
During a courtesy visit by the German Ambassador to Nigeria, Annette Gunther, Senator Akpabio emphasized the need for collaboration between Nigeria and Germany, citing the countries’ significant roles in their respective continents.
“Nigeria is Germany’s second largest trading partner in sub-Saharan Africa,” said Ambassador Gunther, highlighting the economic ties between the two nations.
Senator Akpabio underscored Nigeria’s current struggle with insecurity and called for a joint effort with Germany in areas such as security and power to foster socio-political development.
Expressing concern about the potential security implications, the Senate President urged Germany to reconsider the deportation, stating, “Dumping 12,000 illegal immigrants in Nigeria would lead to the escalation of insecurity in the country.”
Akpabio also called for Germany’s assistance in distinguishing genuine Nigerian immigrants among the group, given the challenges posed by individuals falsely claiming Nigerian identity due to crises in other African countries.
The Senate President stressed the importance of international cooperation in addressing security concerns and urged Germany to support Nigeria in its fight against insecurity while fostering economic development.
