The Nigerian Presidency has issued a detailed clarification on the migration partnership between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, dismissing widespread reports suggesting that Nigeria would be required to accept deported foreign nationals under the agreement.
In a State House press statement, the government said the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent state visit to the UK, strictly outlines cooperation on regulated migration and does not impose any obligation on Nigeria to receive non-citizens.
According to the statement, the agreement was signed by Nigeria’s Minister of Interior and the UK’s Secretary of State for the Home Department, with the primary aim of promoting safe, orderly, and legal migration between both countries while strengthening efforts to combat irregular migration.
The Presidency emphasized that the MoU clearly stipulates that only verified nationals of either country are eligible for repatriation. It noted that individuals identified for return must undergo multiple layers of verification, and any errors in the process would result in the individual being returned to the requesting country at its own expense.
“The agreement does not, at any point, require Nigeria to accept foreign nationals who are not its citizens,” the statement stressed.
Under the framework, both countries are expected to collaborate in ensuring the dignified return of their citizens who no longer have legal rights to reside in the other country. The MoU also provides safeguards to protect the human rights and fundamental freedoms of returnees.
The government further highlighted provisions that allow migrants to return with their legally acquired personal belongings—marking a departure from previous practices where deportees often lost their possessions. Returnees are also guaranteed adequate time to arrange the transfer or disposal of their property before departure.
Additionally, the agreement makes room for appeals based on human rights considerations, particularly in cases where individuals have been long-term residents or face significant challenges reintegrating into their home country.
The Presidency noted that law enforcement agencies in both countries would work collaboratively to protect citizens and manage migration-related issues, including potential conflicts.
Reaffirming its position, the Federal Government described the MoU as a “mutually beneficial framework” designed to enhance bilateral cooperation while upholding international migration standards and protecting the interests of Nigerian citizens.
