Professor Ann Lawani 39, is a Nigerian-born nursing professor and healthcare professional currently at the centre of a major US immigration controversy.
As of November 13, 2026, she has reportedly been detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for nearly two months.
Here are some basic things to know about Professor Ann Lawani
Age: 39
Nationality: Nigerian-born
Profession: Registered nurse and university professor
Institution: University of San Francisco
Workplace: John Muir Health, California
Specialisation: Nursing, palliative care and hospice care.
Professor Ann Lawani’s Travails With ICE
1. Her arrest: ICE agents arrested her at her home in Lodi, California, on September 16, 2026.
2. Her detention: She was transferred through several detention facilities and is reportedly being held at the South Louisiana ICE Processing Centre.
3. The immigration controversy: She entered the United States in 2007 on a visitor visa and subsequently applied for asylum.
4. The 2013 ruling: Although her asylum application was reportedly denied, her la
2013 ruling: Although her asylum application was reportedly denied, her lawyer says an immigration judge granted her withholding of removal to Nigeria because of the risk of persecution she could face if returned.
5. Her supporters: Her family, university colleagues, the National Nurses United and US Congressman Josh Harder have called for her release.
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What makes her case controversial?
There are competing interpretations of her immigration situation.
Her lawyer maintains that the 2013 ruling prevents her deportation to Nigeria.
What makes her case controversial?
There are competing interpretations of her immigration situation.
Her lawyer maintains that the 2013 ruling prevents her deportation to Nigeria.
The US Department of Homeland Security says she has a final removal order and will remain in custody pending removal.
Her lawyer also says her work authorisation remains valid until April 2029.
These are distinct legal issues: permission to work in the US does not automatically confer permanent immigration status.
Why is her story important
Her case raises important questions about:
- The treatment of Nigerian professionals abroad.
- US immigration enforcement and deportation policies.
- The legal protection available to asylum seekers.
- The vulnerability of skilled foreign healthcare workers.
- Nigeria’s diplomatic responsibility towards citizens facing immigration difficulties overseas.
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