NIGERIA: Nigeria, UK sign three MoUs to strengthen bilateral ties

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria

The Federal Government of Nigeria and the United Kingdom have signed three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation across key sectors, including migration, border security, and business mobility.

The agreements, signed in the UK by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, cover migration partnership, cooperation on organised immigration crime and border security, and the expansion of business visa access for UK companies operating in Nigeria.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued by the minister’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Babatunde Alao.

According to the minister, the agreements reflect Nigeria’s commitment to a migration system that aligns with both national interests and international obligations, while promoting safe and structured mobility between both countries.

Tunji-Ojo noted that the partnership underscores a shared resolve by Nigeria and the UK to build a migration framework that is safe, orderly, and mutually beneficial.

“This relationship with the UK means a lot to us and you can see the level of commitment that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has put in.”

He added that the Federal Government would focus on achieving measurable outcomes and ensuring effective implementation of the agreements in the coming year.

The minister also reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to protecting its citizens while addressing abuses within legal migration pathways and tackling criminal networks.

“Regarding visa agreement, personally as the Minister of Interior, I can tell you that I am very happy with this, because for us, this is what we have been looking forward to.”

He emphasised that easing visa processes and addressing irregular migration are critical steps toward unlocking Nigeria’s economic potential.

“I want to assure you on behalf of Mr President and the great people of Nigeria, that we are open for endless possibilities of growth and socio-economic development.”

Also speaking, UK Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, described Nigeria as a key partner in bilateral relations, highlighting the significance of the agreements.

“We are obviously always having bilateral discussions with other countries, however, you will always be number one because you are the first to have gotten such an extensive agreement and we really do appreciate it.”

Similarly, UK Trade Envoy, Florence Eshalomi, said the expansion of business visas would deliver mutual economic benefits and strengthen commercial ties between both nations.

It was also gathered that the agreements include a comprehensive migration partnership framework, a three-year strategy to combat organised immigration crime, and an expanded business visa scheme to facilitate easier mobility for le

gitimate business travellers.