Isiyaku Ahmed
The Federal Government has dismissed what it described as widespread misinformation surrounding the migration partnership between Nigeria and the United Kingdom (UK), insisting that the agreement does not compel Nigeria to accept foreign nationals.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the government clarified that the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on migration was signed during Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to the UK to strengthen bilateral cooperation.
According to the statement, the MoU, signed by Nigeria’s Minister of Interior and the UK Home Secretary, provides a framework for safe, orderly, and legal migration between the two countries and enhances collaboration to tackle irregular migration and related offences.
The government stressed that the 12-page agreement does not require Nigeria to admit non-Nigerian nationals. It explained that only verified citizens of either country are eligible for repatriation, following thorough identification and verification processes.
“Where errors occur, such individuals will be returned to the requesting country at its own cost,” the statement noted.
Under the agreement, both countries are to ensure the dignified return of their nationals who have no legal right to remain in the other country, with full respect for their human rights and fundamental freedoms.
The MoU also outlines clear procedures for repatriation, including identity verification before departure and upon arrival, and the use of valid travel documents or alternative identification processes such as biometric matching.
The FG further emphasized that the Nigeria Immigration Service retains sole authority to issue travel documents for Nigerian returnees, dismissing claims that such powers have been ceded to the UK.
Additionally, the agreement provides for reintegration support for returnees, including short-term assistance such as reception, accommodation, and transport, as well as long-term opportunities like access to education, vocational training, and entrepreneurship funding.
The MoU, similar to previous agreements signed in 2012, 2017, and 2022, will run for an initial period of five years, subject to renewal upon mutual consent.
The government urged media organisations to verify information before publication to avoid misleading the public on sensitive national matters.
