Britain has agreed a new deal with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his government to make it easier to send back failed asylum seekers and foreign criminals to Nigeria.
The Home Office confirmed the agreement during the Nigerian president’s state visit to the United Kingdom this week. Officials say the plan will cut delays and reduce paperwork so deportations can happen more quickly.
Thousands could be sent back
Right now, 961 Nigerian nationals in the UK have had their asylum claims fully rejected and can no longer appeal, meaning they have no legal right to stay.
There are also 1,110 Nigerian foreign offenders waiting to be deported. Both groups are now more likely to be removed under the new agreement, which will also apply to people who overstayed work or visitor visas.
New rule removes passport delays
A key part of the deal allows Nigeria to accept special documents called UK letters instead of passports during deportations.
Until now, one of the biggest problems for the Home Office has been waiting for travel documents from other countries. Without them, deportations cannot happen. The new system is expected to speed things up.
Government says system will be fairer
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood signed the deal with Nigerian interior minister Olubunmi Tunji Ojo.
UK minister Alex Norris said the agreement will help restore order to the immigration system and ensure fairness. Dr Tunji Ojo said Nigeria is committed to meeting its responsibilities and hopes the deal could guide similar agreements with other countries.
Crackdown on fraud and visa abuse
The agreement also includes plans to tackle cybercrime and fraud, with some criminal networks in West Africa targeting UK victims.
Both countries will work together to stop gangs abusing visa routes. A new document checking system will help confirm if applications are genuine. Nigeria will also review its laws on immigration crime, with possible tougher penalties.
State visit includes royal events
The deal comes during a major state visit, the first by a Nigerian leader to the UK in 37 years.
King Charles III hosted a banquet at Windsor Castle and described Nigeria as an economic powerhouse and cultural force.
President Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu also visited St George’s Chapel to honor Queen Elizabeth II.
Leaders meet for talks
The visit continues with meetings including talks between President Tinubu and Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Downing Street, as both sides aim to strengthen cooperation on migration, security, and law enforcement.
