A growing wave of fear is prompting Nigerians in the United States to go into hiding or quietly return home as President Donald Trump’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) intensifies deportation efforts.
Reports indicate that many immigrants have stopped attending work, while some are exploring self-deportation as a safer alternative.
Trump’s administration, since January 2025, has implemented a strict immigration policy targeting illegal immigrants for immediate arrest and removal. The policy, widely criticized for its harsh enforcement measures, includes house-to-house raids that have sparked panic across immigrant communities.
At least 32 people died in ICE custody in 2025, marking the deadliest year in over two decades. In 2026 alone, eight deaths have been reported, including the high-profile killings of Renée Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis during ICE operations.
Nigerian immigrants describe living under constant anxiety. A woman, identified as Senior Immigrant, went viral on Instagram after breaking into tears, recounting the trauma caused by the raids.
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She explained that many Nigerians have resorted to online trading and home-based businesses after abandoning workplaces out of fear for their safety.
Community leaders corroborate the growing alarm. Mrs. Chris Ademiluyi, President of the Nigerian community in Maryland, said that most Nigerians prefer hiding in the US over returning to Nigeria, citing economic and security challenges back home.
Religious leaders have also spoken out. Pastor Shola Adeoye of Lighthouse/Rejuvenation Church in Texas warned that Nigerians are leaving the US due to fear, urging immigrants to make careful decisions rather than rush into self-deportation.
Advocacy groups, including the Washington DC-based Nigerian Center, report a surge in immigrants seeking guidance.
Executive Director Gbenga Ogunjimi said the organization is educating Nigerians on visa restrictions, deportation risks, and available legal avenues, including citizenship, green cards, and work permits.
“Many Nigerians are weighing their options,” Ogunjimi said. “Self-deportation may seem like the only option, but understanding the law and potential consequences is critical before making irreversible decisions.”
Since the crackdown began, ICE officials have detained approximately 70,000 immigrants and deported 540,000.
Amid these developments, Nigerians in the US face an agonizing choice: remain in fear abroad or return to uncertainty at home.