The Presidency has clarified that Nigeria will not accept foreign deportees under the newly signed migration agreement with the United Kingdom.
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Temitope Ajayi, said the clarification became necessary following widespread misinformation about the deal.
According to him, the agreement strictly applies to Nigerian citizens residing illegally in the UK and does not include non-Nigerians.
“For clarity, the agreement signed by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of Nigeria, and the UK Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, only relates to Nigerians who do not have legal status to live and remain in the UK,” Ajayi stated.
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He emphasized that Nigeria is not being compelled to receive individuals who are not its citizens, dismissing such claims as false.
Ajayi further explained that the agreement provides for the dignified return and reintegration of affected Nigerians, ensuring their rights are protected under domestic law, with the possibility of re-entry into the UK if they meet immigration requirements.
The framework also outlines measures such as secure travel documentation, case-by-case identity verification, and safeguards for vulnerable individuals, including potential victims of trafficking.
In addition, the deal covers areas of cooperation between both countries, including information sharing, capacity building, training, and joint research on migration management and border security.