Nigeria Clarifies UK Deportation Deal for Undocumented Nationals

The Nigerian presidency has clarified that the recent deportation agreement with the United Kingdom affects only undocumented Nigerians. This clarification was made by Temitop Ajayi, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, following a UK Home Office announcement.

The agreement allows the UK to return individuals without legal rights to remain in the country, including failed asylum seekers. It marks the first time Nigeria will accept alternative identification documents issued by the UK for individuals lacking valid passports.

Data indicates that 961 Nigerians have exhausted their asylum appeals, while an additional 1,110 await deportation under the deal. Ajayi emphasized that Nigeria is not compelled to accept non-Nigerian nationals and that the agreement aims to ensure the dignified return and reintegration of Nigerians without legal status.

The deal was signed by Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo on behalf of Nigeria and Shabana Mahmood on behalf of the UK during President Tinubu's state visit.