Abuja, Nigeria – The Presidency has moved to dispel widespread misinformation surrounding the recently signed Nigeria–United Kingdom migration partnership, insisting that the agreement does not compel Nigeria to accept foreign nationals.
In a detailed statement, presidential adviser Bayo Onanuga explained that the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to the United Kingdom, strictly focuses on structured and lawful migration cooperation between both countries.
Okay News reports that the agreement establishes a framework for safe and regulated migration, while strengthening efforts to combat irregular migration and related offences. According to the Presidency, only verified nationals of either country are eligible for repatriation under the deal, following rigorous identification processes.
Authorities also emphasized that any individual mistakenly returned would be sent back to the requesting country at its own expense, reinforcing safeguards against wrongful deportation.
The statement further highlighted that the MoU prioritizes dignity, human rights, and due process for returnees, including provisions allowing them to travel with their belongings and make arrangements for their property before departure.
It also outlines reintegration support such as accommodation, financial assistance, and access to education or entrepreneurship opportunities upon return.
The Federal Government maintained that Nigeria retains full control over its documentation processes through the Nigeria Immigration Service, stressing that the agreement—like previous ones signed in 2012, 2017, and 2022—is a standard bilateral framework aimed at cooperation, not concession of sovereignty.
