As a Nigerian missionary on furlough I attend this Nigerian church. I watch people and I feel deeply for them as I interact with them. I listen to their concerns and their prayer topics. They have been through a lot to be in the United States of America . Most have sold all they had to afford a ticket to ‘God’s own country’. Many are disillusioned by the lack of fulfillment of their promise. Many would even quit, but are too ashamed to say they never realized the promise of the Golden Fleece in the land of opportunity. Many a doctor has been seen doing janitorial work. I have seen accountants of yore driving cabs. The more perplexing are even those who went to school in the US but have not found useful employment or are under-employed. I once went to court with a lawyer, who after the court session, took off his lawyer suits to go to his regular job that did not need a suit.

At night vigils in the churches you may hear the congregants say a resounding amen when the 'evil' holding unto their immigration papers is being bound in the name of Jesus. In some may be the face of desperation to escape poverty, but in all is a resolute determination to hang in there until the prayers are answered and their immigration status cleared. The concerns are never strickly personal because families, even extended families, are involved. There are siblings, neices, cousins and parents awaiting the success of the one immigrant to the land of opportunity. Sad, but, one cannot help but notice a superiority air among the holders of the blue passport vis-a-vis their green passport Brethren. The mid-way parties, are the green-card holders because they can travel in and out of the country.

I attend Monday night prayers and about half of the serious prayer concerns are to God for help in an immigration situation. During the monthly Thanksgiving Service, the loudest 'Alleluia' is uttered when a testimony arrives that against all odds a brother or sister has been given that magical ‘Green Card’ or had graduated from a non-person to a ‘citizen’. There is dancing and felicitation in the hope that, if it happened to Bimbo it could also happen to Jimoh. In all, the Nigerians I  encounter are determined, clean, upright and resolute in contributing to this society. They often have a first degree, speak very good English and have impeccable manners when they are not too excited. When they are excited, they may be a bit loud and boisterous. No harm, they are just enjoying fellowship in God’s own country. The question is, does God not answer the prayers of His Children who are aliens in God's Own Country? Of course, God answers prayers, but through the agency of human reasoning and acts. Even the illegal aliens are steadfast in the belief that God has promised that He would set free the lawful captive according to his word.

In writing about Nigerians in the US, one must concede to the negative dent occasioned by the scams that have come to be known as 419. While the desperation of poverty and unemployment may have pushed some to crime, the issue of collusion of the parties to reap where they did not sow could be cured by education and the good work of law enforcement on both continents. The EFCC in working with the FBI have sent almost all but the criminal die-hards scampering. Hardwork being a national ethic of the Nigerian, the lure of easy money is lure for the unemployed or the few with criminogenic tendencies; nothing good law-enforcement cannot cure. While not excusing this crime-wave, some young persons one encountered  are of the view that it may be a way to show their disenchantment with the multinational companies that dominate the oil industry in Nigeria without a resultant effect on their daily lives.

Immigration Reform

For a very long time the issue of immigration Reform has been on the front burner in the policies of this present government. Right from the beginning of the present government of George W. Bush, there was talk of Immigration Reform. Most of the Nigerian Immigrant population welcomed it and looked forward to regularizing their stay.  Most Nigerian Immigrants with a very religious background are naturally socially conservative, so when the present US government tagged itself as ‘Compassionate Conservatives’ they thought they could align with that. The ‘No Child Left Behind’ educational policy also resonated well with them, seeing as they love children as well as education for themselves and their children. The Nigerian immigrant community is therefore confused as to why a self-described ‘Compassionate Conservative’ cannot pass an immigration law that would reflect those good values after many attempts. Since most Africans still perceive issues in black/white or up/down, they are perplexed as to why the socially conservative politicians would be the ones hardest to convince regarding the plight of the immigrants whether legal or illegal. Regarding the role of the organized church or Christians as individuals, I wish to quote the words of Amy (a real or cyber personality) as follows:

 "the church ought to be more engaging in their denunciation of injustice, exploitation and oppressive regimes. Christ, for one, spoke out against Herod’s illegitimate government and had no soft words for those that oppressed the poor and needy for personal gain. During the civil rights movement in the States, black churches contributed immensely to the dismantling of institutionalized racism in America."

I don’t think surrendering to the will of God translates to uncritically accepting prevalent socio-political realities as our lot without a struggle. If Christians, for instance, are admonished to be the salt of the earth, it follows from that logic that they should forcefully denounce illegalities, injustice and the political stagnation".

The time to tackle such bi-partisan issue of Immigration would be now. This is because the Congress has reverted to the Democratic Party who although more liberal, have a history of being more disposed to immigrants. Nigerian Christians especially wonder how a party whose policy is dominated by the Christian Right would take a harder line posture regarding immigration issues. Could their acts of kindness whilst abroad as missionaries not extend to the homeland? is the unasked question on the expectant faces of the Brethren; more so, as the good book enjoins all to be kind to the Alien in your midst. Also in view of the bilateral relationship between the two countries working especially regarding the African diplomacy and peace keeping efforts, the two nations should find it easy to collaborate. It would be easier too to convince Nigerian governments to a mutual beneficial relationship in the Gulf of Guinea if their nationals have easy access to and from the US. The US government too gains from the immigration of Nigerians because of the already trained workforce as well as the natural work-ethic of the average Nigerian who is forever upward-mobile, besides contribution to the social security net of the economy by a younger workforce.

Robot  Villager

# 1 The time to tackle such bi-partisan issue of Immigration would be now. This is because the Congre...Read the full article. Posted by Robot| 11.05.2007 11:28

Mikky jaga  Villager

# 2 It has been said over and over again that Nigerians are some of the most hardworking people in the world. Even when they decide to go 419, the level of ingenuity and hardwork they bring into the infamous practice in mind boggling. Why would the same Nigerians not apply such abundant energy to developing themselves in their country. It is a known fact that no lawyer in Nigeria would descend "so low" as to do a job that requires him to remove his lawyer's suit even if he is dying of hunger. The huge amount of money spent on immigrating to those countries is astounding. If properly applied in Nigeria, it would start some good business. Yet my brothers and sisters prefer to migrate abroad to chase what could be termed as shadows. The indignity suffered before getting visas is another thing no Nigerian should undergo. It is really demeaning to see responsible Nigerians keeping vigils at foreign embassies, while being chased by guards and dogs in their own country. By the time these people reach their destinations in other people's country, they must have been so dehumanzed that they can do just anything to survive. I started a small scale business in 2001 with N400,000.00 which is a pittance compared with what is required to relocate abroad. Today, I am making a profit of close to half a million Naira every month in spite of the harsh economic conditions at home. When converted to dollars, it is not much really, but in Nigeria it ensures that I am well within the legendary middle class. Rather than put themselves in situations where they spend energy and time to pray for a change in immigration policy, they could use such energy to better their lots at home. Nigeria is a land of opportunity. and as long as these foreign countries do not value or appreciate the boundless good Nigerians are doing their countries, we shulod resolve to stay at home to apply our energies to develop ourselves and country. Whether right or left wing, America is first in their minds and later the immigrants, if they think about them at all. Posted by Mikky jaga| 12.05.2007 15:13

ula-lisa  Villager

# 3 =Mikky jaga;175526>It has been said over and over again that Nigerians are some of the most hardworking people in the world. Even when they decide to go 419, the level of ingenuity and hardwork they bring into the infamous practice in mind boggling.... Rather than put themselves in situations where they spend energy and time to pray for a change in immigration policy, they could use such energy to better their lots at home. Nigeria is a land of opportunity. and as long as these foreign countries do not value or appreciate the boundless good Nigerians are doing their countries, we shulod resolve to stay at home to apply our energies to develop ourselves and country. Whether right or left wing, America is first in their minds and later the immigrants, if they think about them at all. MJ: I am glad you stayed in Nigeria and are doing great. When I visit, I will try to meet you to chop with you. Part of trade involves dealing with other persons some from other countRies. In a globalized world, especially, where Africa has always been preyed upon and raped, if we travel, we improve our experience, our education as well as our skill base. It is not compelling to insist that all Nigerians stay in Nigeria. Country branding, made the US the country of choice through hype, adverts, movies and music, all the young want to head for the states even if they have no mission. Many countries are scrambling for a new control of African Resources (we have minerals some Nigerians do not even know they are useful). Travel helps us stay competitive. What we have not perfected is diplomacy...do me I do you...is what we need for the time being before they start respecting us and changing their perception. The Nigerians in the US add value to the USA even if they are there as illegals. It is complex, but the economy gains even from the illegals in way you do not know. Posted by ula-lisa| 13.05.2007 15:46

mulan  Villager

# 4 =Mikky jaga;175526> I started a small scale business in 2001 with N400,000.00 which is a pittance compared with what is required to relocate abroad. Today, I am making a profit of close to half a million Naira every month in spite of the harsh economic conditions at home. When converted to dollars, it is not much really, but in Nigeria it ensures that I am well within the legendary middle class. QUOTE> MJ, You forget that has N400,000 to start up a business and some relocate with nothing more than their airfare. lets not forget those that trekked across africa to swim or be smuggled across the med into europe. it is the situation in the country that has led to all this as well as how europe and america have been able to sell themselves. believe me if there were more opportunities in nigeria, there wouldn't be such rush to leave the country. Posted by mulan| 13.05.2007 19:03

Yetty  Villager

# 5 Thank you, Rev. Ula-Lisa for a well written piece. I have often wondered why people choose to immigrate without the requisite immigration documents and skill sets. Nine times out of ten, such people end up living a demoralised, depressed lives abroad and may eventually take to dishonest, if not criminal means to survive. Things have started changing for the better in Nigeria and my advice for people in the above category is to return to Nigeria without hesitation and start afresh. People will laugh at you, fine, let them laugh; but 10-20 years from now, you will be better off. =Mikky jaga;175526>I started a small scale business in 2001 with N400,000.00 which is a pittance compared with what is required to relocate abroad. Today, I am making a profit of close to half a million Naira every month in spite of the harsh economic conditions at home. When converted to dollars, it is not much really, but in Nigeria it ensures that I am well within the legendary middle class. Congrats, sir. You have done very well for yourself. Posted by Yetty| 13.05.2007 19:51

ula-lisa  Villager

# 6 Immigration breakthrough could pave way for citizenship http://www.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/05/17/senate.immigration/index.html POSTED: 9:15 p.m. EDT, May 17, 2007 Story Highlights• NEW: Speaker Pelosi wants Bush to guarantee 70 votes in the House • Bipartisan group crafts bill that gives immigrants a path to citizenship • Immediate work authorization for those who arrived before January 1, 2007 • Border Patrol agents would be doubled; fencing would be strengthened WASHINGTON (CNN) -- The estimated 12 million undocumented immigrants living in the United States could be put on the path to citizenship under a new immigration bill agreed upon Thursday by a bipartisan group of senators. "The agreement we just reached is the best possible chance we will have to secure our borders, bring millions of people out of the shadows and into the sunshine of America," Democratic Sen. Edward Kennedy of Massachusetts said. President Bush expressed gratitude to the senators for their work. "I really am anxious to sign a comprehensive immigration bill as soon as I possibly can," he told reporters outside the White House. "Today, we took a good step toward this direction." The bill is going to the Senate next week and if it passes, will then proceed to the House. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has told the White House that she's not going to bring the issue to the floor unless the president can deliver at least 70 votes. But Republican Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, said the bill is not a done deal. He said he has "concerns with the principles outlined in today's announcement." "I believe today's announcement is somewhat premature because specific legislative text has yet to be drafted on a number of key details," Cornyn said in a statement. "Until I have the opportunity to review this text, I will withhold from making more detailed comments." The 380-page bill, which comes after nearly three months of negotiations, would give immediate work authorization to undocumented workers who arrived in the United States before January 1, 2007. Heads of household would have to return to their home country within eight years, and they would be guaranteed the right to return. Applicants would also have to pay a $5,000 penalty. Additionally, the number of Border Patrol agents would be doubled, border fencing would be strengthened and employers who hire undocumented workers would face fines. The process of enforcing those provisions would take about 18 months, according to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff. After the provisions are in place, a guest-worker program would be initiated, under which 400,000 temporary workers per year would be granted a "Y" visa. The two-year visas would require they return home for a year, then allow them to re-enter for an additional two-years. The process could be repeated twice more. Each year, they would be able to bring their families on 30-day visitor visas, and each year, they would earn points toward a merit-based green card. Specter: This is not amnesty "It is not amnesty," said Republican Sen. Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania. "This will restore the rule of law." Republican Sen. John McCain of Arizona called the bill "a first step, but an important first step, to moving forward with comprehensive overall immigration reform." "I'm sure that there are certain provisions that each of us would not agree with, but this is what the legislative process is all about," said Republican Sen. Johnny Isakson of Georgia. Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein of California, acknowledged that not everyone will be pleased with the bill's treatment of the immigration issue. "To the American people, I would say, 'Don't let the perfect be the enemy of the good,' " she said. She said the bill would ensure that border security is strong and that farmers -- who depend largely on an undocumented work force -- will be able to find workers. "From my perspective, it's not perfect, but it represents the best opportunity that we have, in a bipartisan way, to do something about this problem," said Republican Sen. Jon Kyl of Arizona. Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, said the bill started out being about how to deal with illegal immigration "and wound up being about what it means to be an American ... I think we've got a deal that reflects who we are as Americans." He added, "From the Ph.D. to the landscaper, there's a chance for you to participate in the American dream on our terms in a way that makes this country better." Graham predicted the bill would find "overwhelming" support among lawmakers. Debate on the bill is slated to get under way in the Senate on Monday, and Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi said she wants passage of a bill before August. Bush: Immigration a tough issue for a lot of Americans Bush described immigration as "a tough issue for a lot of Americans," but added, "The agreement reached today is one that will help enforce our borders but, equally importantly, it will treat people with respect. This is a bill where people who live here in our country will be treated without amnesty but without animosity." That view was challenged by Republican Rep. Brian Bilbray of California, chairman of the Immigration Reform Caucus. "The 'compromise' announced today by Sen. Kennedy will reward 12 million illegal immigrants with a path to citizenship -- what part of illegal does the Senate not understand?" he said in a written statement. "Any plan that rewards illegal behavior is amnesty." The American Immigration Lawyers Association decried the proposal as "large-scale social experimentation," singling out the "guest worker" program as one that would preclude a path to permanent residence for new temporary workers. "A practical solution for the undocumented population is an enormously important step in the right direction," the association said in a written statement. "But the cost of fixing our current problems cannot be the creation of bigger problems in the future." But Chertoff told CNN that the bill would help him better focus his resources. "Right now, I've got my Border Patrol agents and my immigration agents chasing maids and landscapers. I want them to focus on drug dealers and terrorists. It seems to me, if I can get the maids and landscapers into a regulated system and focus my law enforcement on the terrorists and the drug dealers, that's how I get a safe border." Posted by ula-lisa| 17.05.2007 23:36

buffnaija  JJC

# 7 =Mikky jaga;175526>It has been said over and over again that Nigerians are some of the most hardworking people in the world. Even when they decide to go 419, the level of ingenuity and hardwork they bring into the infamous practice in mind boggling. Why would the same Nigerians not apply such abundant energy to developing themselves in their country. It is a known fact that no lawyer in Nigeria would descend "so low" as to do a job that requires him to remove his lawyer's suit even if he is dying of hunger. The huge amount of money spent on immigrating to those countries is astounding. If properly applied in Nigeria, it would start some good business. Yet my brothers and sisters prefer to migrate abroad to chase what could be termed as shadows. The indignity suffered before getting visas is another thing no Nigerian should undergo. It is really demeaning to see responsible Nigerians keeping vigils at foreign embassies, while being chased by guards and dogs in their own country. By the time these people reach their destinations in other people's country, they must have been so dehumanzed that they can do just anything to survive. I started a small scale business in 2001 with N400,000.00 which is a pittance compared with what is required to relocate abroad. Today, I am making a profit of close to half a million Naira every month in spite of the harsh economic conditions at home. When converted to dollars, it is not much really, but in Nigeria it ensures that I am well within the legendary middle class. Rather than put themselves in situations where they spend energy and time to pray for a change in immigration policy, they could use such energy to better their lots at home. Nigeria is a land of opportunity. and as long as these foreign countries do not value or appreciate the boundless good Nigerians are doing their countries, we shulod resolve to stay at home to apply our energies to develop ourselves and country. Whether right or left wing, America is first in their minds and later the immigrants, if they think about them at all. half a million naira a month is not a pittance even when converted to dollars. Most americans dont even make that much. 500000 naira is about 4,000 dollars. So on a yearly bases you bring in roughly 48,000 dollars a year. that is more than what most americans make. Good luck to u man. Posted by buffnaija| 19.05.2007 10:17