Germany sends 137 Nigerians back on chartered flights
Germany has deported at least 137 Nigerians in five separate chartered flights, according to reports. The operations took place between February and June 2026, with several European countries involved in some of the flights. Some of those deported reportedly had serious health conditions or had lived in Germany for years. Migration advocates have called for better safeguards and procedures to prevent wrongful removals.
What we know
- At least 137 Nigerians were deported from Germany in five chartered operations between February and June 2026.
- On February 18, 2026, 27 Nigerians arrived at Lagos Cargo Airport after being deported from Germany.
- A joint EU operation on March 10 saw 50 people deported to Nigeria, with Germany directly responsible for 37 deportations.
- Additional deportations included 24 Nigerians on April 9, 23 in May 2026, and 26 on June 17.
- Some deportees had lived and worked in Germany for years, and at least one family was later allowed to return after their deportation was found to be an error.
