“Only Nigerians Will Return” — Presidency Speaks on UK Migration Deal

The Presidency has dismissed claims that Nigeria agreed to receive foreign deportees under a new migration deal with the United Kingdom.

It said the agreement strictly applies to Nigerians living illegally in the UK and nothing more.

The clarification came after reports stirred public concern, suggesting that Nigeria had opened its borders to accept non-citizens being deported from the UK.

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Temitope Ajayi, addressed the issue in a statement shared on X.

He said the narrative being circulated was false and misleading.

According to him, “Nigeria is not taking back non-Nigerians. The UK government is not compelling Nigeria to take those who are not our citizens.”

He explained that the agreement only covers Nigerians who do not have legal permission to stay in the UK. He added that there is no hidden clause forcing Nigeria to accept migrants from other countries.

The deal was signed during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent state visit to the United Kingdom. Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, signed on behalf of the federal government, while UK Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, signed for the British side.

Officials said the agreement focuses on the proper return and reintegration of affected Nigerians. It is designed to ensure the process is orderly and respects the rights of those involved.

Ajayi stressed that the arrangement includes identity checks and safeguards, especially for vulnerable persons. He noted that each case will be treated individually to avoid errors or abuse.

He also said the agreement guarantees dignity for returnees. Their rights will be protected under Nigerian law, and they may still have the chance to travel again in the future if they meet legal immigration conditions.

Further details from the Ministry of Interior show that the deal covers the use of secure travel documents and proper verification processes. It also provides protection for victims of trafficking and other at-risk individuals.

The framework includes cooperation between both countries in areas such as migration management, training, and information sharing. It is also expected to strengthen border control systems and improve data exchange.

The Presidency insisted that the agreement is standard practice between countries managing migration issues. It urged Nigerians to disregard false reports and seek verified information.