UK-Nigeria Migration Deal Doesn’t Involve Foreign Criminal Transfers — Tunji-Ojo

Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has refuted claims that a recent migration agreement with the United Kingdom allows for the relocation of foreign criminals to Nigeria.

The agreement, signed during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to the UK, is designed to enhance cooperation on migration control, border security and broader bilateral relations.

Concerns had emerged following reports suggesting the deal could enable the UK to deport offenders to Nigeria.

But speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Tunji-Ojo clarified that the agreement strictly applies to Nigerian citizens without legal status in the UK.

“Article 7 of the agreement says the parties will work together to secure the dignified return of their nationals who do not or who no longer have the right to enter or remain in that country,” he explained.

He stressed that Nigeria would not accept foreign criminals under any circumstance.

“There is no way this government under this president will sign that sort of agreement; it’s never going to be done,” he said, reiterating that it only covers “Nigerians who are overstayers or who are out of status in the United Kingdom.”

The minister said the agreement is based on mutual responsibility and offers opportunities for stronger collaboration between both countries.

“These agreements have opened a vista of opportunities for collaboration,” he noted.

He further highlighted that irregular migration is a shared global issue.

“We believe that irregular migration today is not just a UK problem… it’s a problem all over the world… Partnership is needed to bring all hands together to solve this problem,” Tunji-Ojo said.

On transparency, he maintained that the government had disclosed key details of the agreement through official channels, including statements by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga.

Tunji-Ojo also pointed to provisions protecting returnees, noting that Article 8 ensures they are treated with dignity and their fundamental rights respected.

He concluded that the agreement is fair and reciprocal, stressing that it is distinct from third-country asylum arrangements and will be implemented in line with existing legal frameworks.

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