Manny Ita –
The Presidency has moved to quell growing public concern over Nigeria’s recently signed migration Memorandum of Understanding with the United Kingdom, firmly denying claims that the country would be compelled to accept foreign nationals under the agreement.
In a statement issued on Saturday, presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga described the circulating reports as “misleading and entirely inaccurate,” stressing that the agreement strictly applies to Nigerian citizens who no longer have legal grounds to remain in the UK.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria wishes to categorically state that the MoU does not in any way obligate Nigeria to receive non-Nigerian nationals,” Onanuga said. “The agreement is a standard bilateral arrangement focused solely on the humane and dignified return of Nigerian citizens found to be in breach of immigration laws in the UK.”
The clarification follows widespread speculation on social media suggesting that Nigeria had entered into a deal that would allow the UK to deport third-country nationals to its territory, a claim the Presidency dismissed as unfounded.
According to the statement, the agreement aligns with international migration protocols and reflects longstanding cooperation between Nigeria and the UK on immigration management. It noted that such frameworks are common between countries seeking to address irregular migration while upholding human rights standards.
“The objective is to ensure that returns are conducted in an orderly, safe, and dignified manner, consistent with international obligations and respect for the rights of the individuals involved,” the statement added.
The Presidency emphasized that Nigeria retains full sovereignty over its immigration policies and decisions, reiterating that no clause within the MoU compromises the country’s control over who is admitted into its territory.
Officials further explained that the agreement also includes provisions for reintegration support, aimed at helping returning Nigerians resettle and contribute productively to society upon their arrival.
The development comes amid heightened scrutiny of migration policies globally, with the UK government intensifying efforts to curb illegal immigration and streamline deportation processes. However, Nigerian authorities insist that the bilateral understanding does not extend beyond its clearly defined scope.
Reaffirming the government’s position, Onanuga urged the public to disregard what he described as “alarmist interpretations” of the agreement. “There is no cause for concern. Nigeria’s interests remain fully protected, and the narrative suggesting otherwise is simply false,” he said.
