The Federal Government has denied claims that the United Kingdom plans to deport foreign nationals to Nigeria under a new migration agreement, saying the reports are based on “misinformation.”
In a statement, presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga said the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed during President Bola Tinubu’s recent UK visit “aimed to strengthen the partnership between Nigeria and the United Kingdom” and promote safe migration.
He stressed that “nowhere in the 12-page memorandum is Nigeria required to accept foreign nationals other than Nigerians.”
The government explained that the agreement only allows both countries to return their own citizens who no longer have the legal right to stay abroad.
“Nigeria and the United Kingdom will work together to secure the dignified return of their nationals,” the statement said.
It added that those to be returned must pass strict checks.
“Nationals to be repatriated must have undergone multiple levels of identification and verification,” and if mistakes occur, “they are returned to the requesting country at the requesting country’s cost.”
The statement also said returnees would be treated fairly.
A key condition is that they “are treated with dignity and respect, with due regard to their human rights and fundamental freedoms.”
The MoU includes support for returnees, such as “airport reception, accommodation, onward transportation… and small cash assistance,” as well as access to education and business support.
Onanuga said the deal is similar to earlier agreements signed in 2012, 2017 and 2022, and will last for five years.
He urged the media to verify reports, warning against spreading false claims about the agreement.
