Nigeria Confirms Only Citizens Will Be Deported from UK

The Nigerian government has clarified the terms of its asylum agreement with the United Kingdom, stating that only Nigerian citizens will be accepted for deportation. Temitope Ajayi, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, explained that the agreement specifically pertains to Nigerians without legal residency status in the UK.

The Nigerian government will not accept non-Nigerians, and the UK cannot compel Nigeria to take back individuals who are not its citizens. Ajayi emphasized the importance of avoiding misinformation regarding the agreement, which guarantees that returning citizens will be treated with dignity and in accordance with domestic laws.

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, described the partnership as a milestone and a testament to the shared determination to build a migration system that is safe and orderly, mutually beneficial, and hopes to strengthen bilateral relations. This agreement marks the first time Nigeria will accept letters of alternative identification from the UK for individuals without valid passports to facilitate their return.