Nigeria and the United Kingdom have entered into new bilateral agreements aimed at strengthening migration management, improving border security, and expanding access to business travel between both countries.
The Federal Government formalised the arrangements through the signing of three memoranda and statements of intent covering migration partnership, cooperation on organised immigration crime and border control, as well as the expansion of business visa access for UK companies operating in Nigeria.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, represented Nigeria at the engagements, signing two of the agreements on Wednesday evening and concluding the third during official sessions held in the United Kingdom on Thursday.
Speaking after the signing, Tunji-Ojo said the agreements underscore Nigeria’s commitment to a structured migration system that balances transparency with national interest while remaining aligned with global standards.
He noted that both countries are working toward a migration framework that is safe, orderly, and mutually beneficial, adding that the partnership would be reviewed over time to assess measurable outcomes that could serve as a model for future bilateral cooperation.
The minister also highlighted Nigeria’s ongoing collaboration with the UK Home Office, describing it as a strong and productive relationship further reinforced under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s stance, Tunji-Ojo stressed the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens while ensuring accountability for individuals who misuse legal migration channels or engage in criminal activities.
On the business visa component of the agreement, he said the reform aligns with the government’s broader economic agenda, noting that facilitating legitimate business travel would help boost trade, attract investment, and stimulate economic growth.
He added that as Nigeria works toward building a trillion-dollar economy, reducing barriers such as irregular migration and improving ease of movement for business purposes remain key priorities.
The minister further assured that the Federal Government is open to deeper economic cooperation with the UK and will work to ensure effective implementation of the agreements.
On the UK side, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood described Nigeria as a top-tier partner, emphasising the depth of engagement between both countries.
She noted that while the United Kingdom maintains relations with several nations, the scale and scope of its agreement with Nigeria stand out, adding that both countries share a common vision for collaboration.
Also speaking, UK Trade Envoy Florence Eshalomi said the business visa expansion agreement offers mutual economic benefits and is expected to further strengthen commercial ties.
She described the development as a strategic step that supports economic growth, particularly for Nigeria, which remains one of Africa’s largest and most dynamic economies.
The agreements are expected to deepen cooperation between Nigeria and the United Kingdom across migration management, security, and trade facilitation.
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