Nigeria, UK Sign Deal on Repatriation of Deportees, Failed Asylum Seekers

The Nigerian government has entered into a new agreement with the United Kingdom to accept the return of deported individuals, including convicted offenders and failed asylum seekers, as part of strengthened cooperation on migration management and security.

The deal was formalised during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to the UK. It was signed by Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and UK Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, with support from the UK Home Office.

Under the agreement, the UK will be able to return Nigerian nationals who have overstayed their visas, failed in their asylum applications, or been convicted of crimes. A key provision allows Nigeria to accept “UK letters” as valid identification for deportees who lack passports, removing the need to wait for emergency travel documents before repatriation.

UK Minister for Border Security and Asylum, Alex Norris, described Nigeria as an important partner in tackling illegal migration. He noted that the agreement would help ensure individuals who violate immigration rules or break the law are swiftly removed, while maintaining fairness across the system.

On Nigeria’s part, Tunji-Ojo reaffirmed the country’s commitment to fulfilling its international obligations and maintaining strong bilateral relations with the UK. He emphasized that the partnership reflects mutual respect and responsibility, adding that Nigeria intends to sustain and build on the relationship for the long term.

The agreement also includes plans for joint operations and intelligence sharing to combat criminal networks exploiting visa systems. Officials from both countries say the move is aimed at promoting a safer, more transparent, and well-managed migration process.

Recent data indicates that annual returns of Nigerian nationals from the UK have risen significantly, with deportations and removals of illegal migrants and foreign offenders reaching tens of thousands in recent years.