The Federal Government has clarified that its recent agreement with the United Kingdom applies strictly to Nigerian citizens who do not have legal permission to live in the country.
According to officials, the deal does not involve the return of non-Nigerians, emphasizing that the Nigeria will not accept individuals who are not its citizens. The clarification followed concerns and misinformation surrounding the agreement.
A statement linked to the presidency explained that the pact—signed during the state visit of Bola Ahmed Tinubu—was formalized by Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood. It strictly targets Nigerians residing in the UK without valid immigration status.
The government further assured that affected individuals would be treated with dignity and in accordance with Nigerian laws. It also noted that returnees could reapply to enter the UK in the future if they meet the required immigration criteria.
The agreement outlines procedures for a structured and humane return process, including secure travel documentation, individual identity verification, and protections for vulnerable persons such as trafficking victims. It also covers cooperation between both countries in areas like information sharing, training, and migration management.
A key feature of the deal is Nigeria’s recognition of “UK letters”—alternative identification documents issued to individuals without valid passports. This development, according to the UK Home Office, removes a major obstacle that previously delayed deportations.
The UK government added that the agreement would make it easier to return visa overstayers, foreign offenders, and failed asylum seekers. UK Minister for Border Security and Asylum, Alex Norris, said the deal strengthens efforts to curb illegal migration.
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