The Nigerian Presidency has dismissed claims that the country will accept foreign deportees under a newly signed migration agreement with the United Kingdom, stating that such interpretations are incorrect.
Presidential aide Temitope Ajayi said the deal applies only to Nigerian nationals residing illegally in the UK. He explained that the agreement, signed during the visit of Bola Tinubu, involves Nigeria’s Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood.
Ajayi stressed that Nigeria is not obligated to receive non citizens, noting that “the Nigerian government is not taking back non Nigerians,” and that the UK is not forcing such an arrangement. He said the clarification was necessary to counter widespread misinformation.
According to the Presidency, the agreement focuses on the structured return of Nigerians without legal status in the UK, ensuring they are treated with dignity and retain their rights under Nigerian law. It also allows for future re entry if immigration conditions are met.
Further details from the Interior Ministry indicate the framework includes secure travel documentation, case by case identity verification, and protections for vulnerable individuals, including potential trafficking victims. It also outlines cooperation in information sharing, training, and joint efforts on migration management and border security.
