Why Fewer Nigerians Are Jailed for Drug Offenses in Thailand

The number of Nigerians held in Thai prisons for drug crimes has fallen from 800 in 2014 to just 200 by 2026. Most were on death row; many have since been executed, and the remainder have had sentences commuted or receive stays of execution as Thailand pauses foreign executions. Arrests at Thai airports have also declined. This follows the introduction of stringent visa requirements for Nigerian citizens and tougher screening procedures for all Nigerian travellers. Authorities dismantled Okeite shrines in Anambra used by drug couriers hoping for protection at checkpoints. However, this drop in arrests coincides with widespread stereotyping of Nigerians on arrival and a growing refusal of visa applications.

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