Emmanuel Ochayi
A coalition of advocacy groups is pressing the Biden administration to offer immigration protections for Nigerians living in the United States. The coalition, which includes the Nigerian Center, Nigerian American Lawyers Association, Amnesty International, and The ONE Campaign, is calling for Nigeria to be designated for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Special Student Relief (SSR).
On November 18, 2023, representatives from these organisations met with officials from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and the U.S. State Department. Their aim was to push for urgent action before the Biden administration’s term concludes.
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During the meeting, Gbenga Ogunjimi, Director of the Nigerian Center and lead of the TPS Coalition for Nigeria, emphasised the critical nature of the request. He stated, “We urge the administration to grant Nigeria Special Student Relief (SSR) designation, or, if possible, Temporary Protected Status (TPS). We request that the Biden administration extend these critical protections to Nigerian nationals and students in the U.S. before its term concludes. As the United States transitions to a new administration, we recommend prioritizing this request as a policy recommendation for the incoming administration, particularly given its stated commitment to favoring merit-based immigration. This approach is especially relevant for individuals with skills in demand in the U.S. economy.”
The coalition is pushing for the U.S. to recognise the economic hardships and social conditions affecting Nigerians. They argue that conditions in Nigeria, such as rising inflation and currency devaluation, have placed significant burdens on Nigerian nationals living abroad.
Economic Crisis in Nigeria Drives the Demand
Nigeria’s economy has faced severe challenges in recent years. The country’s currency, the Naira, has experienced a dramatic decline, with $1 USD now equivalent to 1,664 Naira. This marks a steep depreciation compared to 2019, when the exchange rate was approximately 360 Naira per USD. The 362.2% devaluation over five years has led to an unprecedented loss of purchasing power for Nigerian families.
“This sharp decline has severely impacted families sending remittances to students in the U.S., rendering them unable to afford tuition, housing, and basic necessities. These hardships are why, in April of this year, a coalition of over 50 immigrant rights, human rights, faith-based, and community organisations petitioned the Biden administration to designate Nigeria for Special Student Relief (SSR),” said Nkechi Ilechie, Policy Director of the Nigerian Center and co-lead of the TPS Coalition for Nigeria.
These economic pressures have had a ripple effect on Nigerian nationals in the United States, particularly students. Without financial support from home, many students are at risk of dropping out of school or losing access to basic living essentials. SSR designation would provide temporary relief by allowing affected students to work and reduce their educational burdens.
What is Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Special Student Relief (SSR)?
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a humanitarian programme that allows individuals from designated countries to live and work legally in the United States for a limited period. Countries are typically designated for TPS when they experience armed conflict, natural disasters, or other extraordinary conditions.
Special Student Relief (SSR), on the other hand, offers temporary relief to international students who face financial hardship due to unforeseen circumstances in their home countries. SSR allows these students to reduce their course loads or obtain work permits to support themselves while pursuing their education in the U.S.
Coalition’s Appeal to the Biden Administration
The coalition’s appeal is directed at the Biden administration’s commitment to supporting vulnerable immigrant communities. By granting TPS and SSR to Nigerians, the administration would provide relief to thousands of nationals facing economic hardship. The coalition is urging the administration to act swiftly, noting that the change of leadership following the next U.S. presidential election could affect the outcome of their request.
“The incoming administration’s focus on merit-based immigration should align with our call,” said Ogunjimi. “Many Nigerians possess valuable skills and expertise that can contribute to the U.S. economy.”
How Affected Nigerians Can Get Assistance
The Nigerian Center has advised affected Nigerians to seek support. Individuals seeking assistance can contact the Nigerian Center online or call 202-330-0352 for guidance.
The centre provides culturally sensitive support services, legal resources, and opportunities to help newly arrived immigrants transition to life in the United States.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
