The Federal Government of Nigeria and the United Kingdom have signed a series of agreements aimed at strengthening cooperation on migration, border security, and economic engagement through expanded business visa access.
Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) on Wednesday and a third on Thursday during an official visit to the UK, representing the Federal Government.
The agreements included an 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.
Tunji-Ojo described the development as a reflection of Nigeria’s commitment to a transparent migration framework that respects both national interests and international obligations. He noted that the partnership underscores a shared determination by both countries to build a migration system that is safe, orderly, and mutually beneficial.
He further stressed that the Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is focused on delivering measurable outcomes, expressed optimism that significant progress would be recorded within the next year.
The minister also acknowledged the existing strong working relationship between Nigeria and the UK Home Office, described it as commendable and critical to the success of the new agreements.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s stance, Tunji-Ojo said the country remains committed to protecting its citizens while ensuring that individuals who exploit legal migration pathways or engage in criminal activities are held accountable.
On the expansion of business visas, he described the agreement as a major step toward boosting socio-economic development, adding that ongoing reforms by the Tinubu administration position visa policies as catalysts for economic growth.
He emphasized that for Nigeria to achieve its ambition of building a trillion-dollar economy, barriers to trade particularly those linked to irregular migration must be addressed.
Speaking on behalf of the UK government, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood praised the agreement, stating that Nigeria remains a top partner in bilateral relations.
Mahmood noted that while the UK maintains discussions with several countries, Nigeria stands out as the first to secure such a comprehensive agreement, highlighting the shared vision between both nations.
Also commenting, UK Trade Envoy Florence Eshalomi said the expansion of business visas presents clear mutual benefits, describing it as a significant step toward enhancing economic growth, particularly for Nigeria as Africa’s largest economy.
The agreements are expected to deepen bilateral ties, enhance border management, and open new pathways for trade and investment between both countries.
