Nigeria and the United Kingdom have signed a series of agreements aimed at strengthening cooperation on migration, border security, and business mobility.
The agreements include a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Migration Partnership, a Statement of Intent on Cooperation on Organised Immigration Crime and Border Security, and another Statement of Intent on the expansion of business visas for UK companies operating in Nigeria.
Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, signed two of the agreements on Wednesday and the third on Thursday while representing the federal government in the UK.
Tunji-Ojo said the agreements reflect Nigeria’s commitment to a migration framework that is transparent, orderly, and aligned with both national interests and international obligations.
“This partnership shows our shared determination to build a migration system that is safe, orderly, and mutually beneficial,” he said, expressing optimism that measurable progress would be achieved within a year.
The minister noted that Nigeria already enjoys a strong working relationship with the UK Home Office and credited the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for deepening bilateral engagement.
He reiterated Nigeria’s resolve to protect its citizens while ensuring that individuals who exploit legal migration pathways or engage in criminal activities are held accountable.
On the agreement to expand business visas, Tunji-Ojo described the development as a key step toward boosting socio-economic growth, noting that ongoing reforms are positioning Nigeria for greater economic opportunities.
UK Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, described Nigeria as a leading partner in bilateral relations, noting that the scope of the agreement is unprecedented.
“We both understand each other and share a vision for what our countries can achieve together,” she said.
Also speaking, UK Trade Envoy, Florence Eshalomi, said the expansion of business visas would deliver clear benefits for both countries, particularly in driving economic growth.
She described the strengthened partnership as a significant step for Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, as it seeks to expand trade and investment opportunities.
The agreements are expected to enhance cooperation between both countries while promoting safer migration pathways, tackling cross-border crime, and easing business travel.