Nigeria-UK Migration Deal: FG Clarifies Terms, Scope

The Federal Government has addressed concerns surrounding the migration agreement between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, stating that the deal does not require Nigeria to accept foreign nationals.

In a statement issued by the Presidency, officials explained that the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed during President Bola Tinubu’s recent visit to the UK, is focused on promoting safe, orderly, and regulated migration. It also aims to tackle illegal migration and related crimes in line with both countries’ laws and international obligations.

The government, through the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, emphasized that the agreement strictly applies to the return of confirmed citizens of either country. It clarified that individuals would only be repatriated after thorough identification processes, and any mistakes would be corrected at the expense of the requesting country.

According to the statement, the agreement ensures that returnees are treated with dignity and their fundamental rights are protected. It also mandates law enforcement agencies in both countries to safeguard citizens and manage migration-related risks.

A notable provision allows returnees to travel with their legally acquired belongings, unlike previous situations where deportees often returned without their assets. The agreement also gives individuals enough time to settle their affairs, including managing or transferring property before departure.

The MoU further acknowledges the rights of individuals with ongoing legal or human rights claims, especially those with strong ties to their host country or potential reintegration challenges.

It outlines detailed procedures for repatriation, including identity checks before departure and upon arrival, coordination between both nations, and the use of scheduled or chartered flights. In some cases, returns may be expedited using biometric data or supporting documents.

The Presidency stressed that Nigeria retains full control over its immigration processes. The Nigeria Immigration Service remains solely responsible for issuing travel documents, independent of any UK-issued papers.

In cases of wrongful identification, the agreement requires the requesting country to take back the affected individual within a specified period and at its own cost.

The deal also includes a structured reintegration plan for returnees, offering immediate support such as reception and accommodation, as well as long-term opportunities like education, vocational training, and entrepreneurship programmes.

The agreement will run for an initial period of five years, subject to renewal, and builds on previous migration partnerships signed between both countries in 2012, 2017, and 2022.

Reaffirming its commitment to transparency, the Federal Government urged media organisations to verify complex policy issues before publication to avoid spreading misinformation.