The Federal Government has dismissed claims that its recent migration agreement with the United Kingdom includes provisions for the transfer of foreign prisoners to Nigeria, describing such reports as false and misleading.
Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, clarified the position during an appearance on Channels Television, stressing that the agreement strictly applies to Nigerian nationals residing unlawfully in the UK and does not involve accepting criminals from other countries.
The agreement, signed during President Bola Tinubu’s recent state visit to the United Kingdom, forms part of broader efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation on migration management, border control, and economic collaboration.
Public concern had grown following reports suggesting that the deal could enable the UK to deport foreign inmates or asylum seekers to Nigeria. However, Tunji-Ojo firmly rejected the narrative, stating that no such provision exists in the agreement.
He explained that the relevant section of the deal focuses on the “dignified return” of nationals who no longer have the legal right to remain in either country. According to him, this aligns with standard international migration frameworks based on reciprocity between sovereign states.
The minister emphasised that the Nigerian government would not enter into any arrangement that compromises national integrity or allows the country to become a destination for foreign offenders.
He further reassured citizens that the agreement presents opportunities for cooperation rather than risks, noting that irregular migration is a global challenge requiring joint action among nations.
Tunji-Ojo also highlighted that the agreement guarantees the protection of returnees, with provisions ensuring that individuals repatriated under the arrangement are treated with dignity and in accordance with their fundamental human rights.
He described the deal as mutually beneficial, stressing that it reflects a balanced partnership between Nigeria and the UK, with both countries assuming equal responsibility in addressing migration-related issues.
The minister added that the agreement is distinct from controversial third-country asylum arrangements previously proposed elsewhere, noting that each case under the Nigeria-UK framework would be handled based on established legal conditions and would not include family members.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to transparency, Tunji-Ojo said there was no hidden clause in the agreement, adding that official communications had already outlined its key provisions.
The clarification comes amid heightened public scrutiny of international migration policies, as governments seek to balance border control, human rights, and global cooperation in managing population movement.
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