Nigeria has signed an agreement with the United Kingdom to receive deported criminals, failed asylum seekers, and visa overstayers. The deal was formalized during President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to the UK on March 19, 2026.

The agreement allows Britain to send individuals without valid passports using UK-issued identification letters, removing delays from emergency travel documents. It strengthens cooperation on migration control and security between both countries.

Minister of the Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, said Nigeria is committed to being a responsible partner and highlighted the long-term importance of the UK-Nigeria relationship. He added that fairness and transparency would guide the process.

UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood and Border Security Minister Alex Norris emphasized that the deal ensures those abusing UK migration systems are promptly removed, restoring order to the border.

The agreement also includes joint operations and intelligence sharing to tackle criminal gangs exploiting visa routes, ensuring that arrivals are genuine and contribute positively. Annual returns to Nigeria have nearly doubled to over 1,150, with nearly 60,000 deportations since the 2024 UK election.

Officials said the strengthened partnership could serve as a template for other bilateral agreements, reinforcing safe, fair, and well-managed migration while maintaining strong diplomatic ties between Nigeria and the UK.