By Peace Udugba -The daily torch media
The Nigerian government has addressed growing public concerns and misconceptions surrounding the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United Kingdom on migration cooperation, emphasizing that the agreement is designed to strengthen bilateral relations and promote safe, regulated migration.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Information and Strategy, explained that the MoU provides a structured framework for managing migration between both countries while tackling irregular migration.
The agreement was signed by Nigeria’s Minister of Interior and the UK’s Secretary of State for the Home Department during President Tinubu’s recent state visit to the United Kingdom.
According to Onanuga, the MoU is focused on enhancing cooperation in addressing irregular migration and related issues, in line with both countries’ immigration laws and international obligations.
He noted that the deal outlines clear procedures for the return of nationals, including strict identification and verification processes.
He stressed that only verified citizens will be returned, adding that any errors in identification would result in the individual being sent back to the requesting country at its own expense.
The agreement also guarantees that returnees can travel with their legally acquired belongings and benefit from reintegration support. This includes assistance such as airport reception, temporary accommodation, and support for employment or business start-ups.
On documentation, the government clarified that the Nigeria Immigration Service retains sole responsibility for issuing all necessary travel documents. The UK, Onanuga said, plays no role in this process.
The MoU further provides avenues for appeal, allowing individuals to challenge deportation decisions, particularly in cases involving long-term residency or deep social and cultural integration in the requesting country.
Additionally, the agreement sets out procedures for coordinating returns between both nations. These may be conducted via scheduled commercial flights or specially chartered aircraft, depending on the situation.
The deal is expected to run for an initial five-year period, with provisions for renewal and continued reintegration support for returnees.
Onanuga urged media organisations to verify information before publication to prevent misinformation, describing the agreement as a standard international practice. He added that similar arrangements were previously signed in 2012, 2017, and 2022.
While the agreement has been welcomed in some quarters as a step toward better migration management, critics have raised concerns about its broader implications.
The Nigerian government, however, maintained that the MoU prioritises the protection of the rights and dignity of affected individuals, while strengthening cooperation between both countries.
It also noted that law enforcement agencies on both sides will work collaboratively to safeguard citizens and address potential migration-related conflicts.
The agreement is expected to take effect in the coming weeks as both nations begin implementation.
