Nigeria and the United Kingdom have moved to finalise a new migration pact as both countries step up efforts to strengthen border control and align migration policy with broader economic reform goals.
This formed the focus of discussions when Nigeria’s minister of interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, received the British high commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, and his delegation during a courtesy visit to the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
Speaking during the meeting, the minister reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to protecting national sovereignty in migration matters while deepening security cooperation and expanding economic opportunities between both countries.
He stressed that migration management remains a shared responsibility and a key pillar of Nigeria’s strategic security partnership with the UK, noting that both sides are working to conclude an updated memorandum of understanding on migration and returns.
According to him, the revised agreement is expected to reflect a joint commitment to lawful, efficient, and humane migration processes while also reinforcing long-standing collaboration in intelligence sharing, technical support, and operational coordination between Nigeria and the UK.
Dr Tunji-Ojo noted that migration cooperation between both countries has lasted for over two decades, particularly in the area of migration justice, and said the current engagement builds on that long-standing partnership.
He added that Nigeria is determined to consolidate past gains while updating its frameworks to meet present security and economic realities.
The minister also highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at modernising Nigeria’s immigration system, improving passport administration, and ensuring that legitimate travel and mobility are not hindered by inefficiencies. He maintained that these reforms are designed to protect national security while supporting economic growth.
He further stressed the need to strike a careful balance between effective border control and economic development, arguing that credible investment and a stable migration system are both central to the federal government’s wider reform agenda.
In his remarks, the British High Commissioner commended Nigeria’s policy direction and welcomed efforts to create predictable and efficient systems that can serve shared interests.
He described the discussions as practical and solution-driven, with a clear focus on results.
Both sides are reaffirming their commitment to deepen cooperation in migration management, security collaboration, and economic development, signalling a renewed push to strengthen bilateral ties within a structured and mutually accountable framework.
Leave a Reply