The Nigerian government has entered into a new agreement with the United Kingdom to facilitate the return of Nigerians who have been denied asylum, overstayed their visas, or committed criminal offences.

The arrangement, confirmed by the UK Home Office on Thursday, was reached during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent official visit to the UK, signalling deepening cooperation between both countries on migration and border control.

Under the agreement, UK authorities will accelerate the deportation process for individuals who have exhausted all legal avenues to remain in the country. Official figures indicate that about 961 Nigerian asylum seekers in the UK have had their applications refused and no longer have the right to appeal, effectively making them liable for removal.

In addition, approximately 1,110 Nigerian nationals currently in the UK have been identified as offenders and are awaiting deportation. The new framework is expected to streamline their return to Nigeria.

The deal also covers Nigerians who have overstayed their visas, a category that has been a growing concern for UK immigration authorities. By strengthening documentation and verification processes, both governments aim to ensure smoother and faster repatriation.

Analysts say the agreement reflects the UK’s broader push to tighten immigration controls while working with origin countries to manage irregular migration. For Nigeria, officials say the partnership will also include measures to support the reintegration of returnees and improve migration governance.

The development comes amid increasing scrutiny of asylum systems in Europe and renewed diplomatic efforts to address migration through bilateral agreements rather than unilateral enforcement.