A department of the Government of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland has signed a Migration Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Nigeria.
The MoU establishes a framework for safe, orderly, and regulated migration between both countries, while also strengthening bilateral cooperation in tackling irregular migration and related activities. This is to be carried out in line with each country’s immigration laws, as well as applicable international treaties, conventions, and agreements.
Importantly, nowhere in the 12-page agreement is Nigeria required to accept foreign nationals who are not its citizens. Any individual to be repatriated must undergo thorough identification and verification processes. In cases of error, such individuals will be returned to the requesting country at its own expense.
Under the agreement, both Nigeria and the United Kingdom will collaborate to ensure the dignified return of their nationals who do not, or no longer, have the legal right to remain in the other country. A key condition is that returnees must be confirmed bona fide citizens and treated with dignity, with full respect for their human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Law enforcement agencies in both countries are also mandated to safeguard the interests and well-being of their citizens, while working to prevent and manage migration-related conflicts.
A notable provision of the MoU ensures that returnees are allowed to travel with their legally acquired personal belongings. Article 12 further guarantees that individuals will have sufficient time to arrange for the transfer or disposal of their property before departure, under appropriate supervision.
The agreement also provides safeguards for individuals who may have pending claims under domestic or international human rights laws. Such claims must be duly considered, particularly in cases where individuals have lived most of their lives in the requesting country or may face significant challenges reintegrating into their country of origin.
Article 9 outlines detailed procedures for return. These include strict identification checks before departure and upon arrival, as well as coordinated logistics between both countries. Returns may be conducted via scheduled or chartered flights, with adequate notice provided in advance.
Where necessary, expedited processes may be used based on biometric verification or other strong evidence of nationality. However, if there is any doubt regarding a returnee’s identity, the process may be delayed pending clarification. Should it later be discovered that a returned individual is not a national of the receiving country, the requesting country is obligated to take the person back at its own cost.
The MoU also clearly states that the responsibility for issuing Nigerian travel documentation rests solely with the Nigeria Immigration Service, ensuring that Nigeria retains full authority over its immigration processes.
Article 11 focuses on reintegration support for returnees. This includes short-term assistance such as reception, accommodation, and basic welfare support; medium-term assistance like family reunification and access to essential services; and long-term support through education, vocational training, entrepreneurship funding, and employment opportunities.
The agreement is initially set for a five-year period, with the option for renewal upon mutual consent, similar to previous agreements signed in 2012, 2017, and 2022.
In light of public discourse, it is important for media organisations to seek proper clarification on such matters to ensure accurate reporting and prevent misinformation.
