The Federal Government has clarified that its migration agreement with the United Kingdom applies strictly to Nigerians who do not have legal rights to remain in the country.
According to officials, the deal does not involve accepting foreigners, stressing that Nigeria will only take back its own citizens.
“For clarity, it is important to state that the agreement signed by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during the state visit of President Bola Tinubu on behalf of the government of Nigeria, and Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, on behalf of the UK government, only relates to Nigerians who do not have legal status to live and remain in the UK.
“Nigerian government is not taking back non-Nigerians. The UK government is not compelling Nigeria to take those who are not our citizens. This clarification becomes necessary because of those who have already revved up their misinformation machinery,” a statement signed by presidential aide Temitope Ajayi partly read.
The government added that the agreement ensures returnees are treated with dignity and retain their rights under Nigerian law, with opportunities to reapply for entry into the UK if they meet immigration requirements.
“It also provides detailed arrangements for the dignified return and reintegration of NIGERIANS who do not have the legal right to remain in the UK.
“This arrangement includes: the use of secured travel documentation, case-by-case identity verification, and safeguards for vulnerable individuals and potential victims of trafficking.”
Under the deal, the UK will now recognise “UK letters” as valid travel identification for deportation processes, removing delays previously caused by waiting for emergency travel documents.
The agreement, officials say, also strengthens cooperation between both countries in areas such as migration management, border security, and information sharing.
