By Ekunkonye Junior, Abuja
The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting national sovereignty in migration matters, strengthening security cooperation, and expanding economic opportunities between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
This was disclosed by the Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during a courtesy visit by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, and his delegation to the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasized that migration management remains a shared responsibility and a critical pillar of Nigeria’s strategic security partnership with the United Kingdom.
He disclosed that both countries are working to finalize an updated Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Migration and Returns, reflecting a shared commitment to efficient, lawful, and humane migration processes.
The Minister welcomed the United Kingdom’s continued cooperation in intelligence sharing, technical support, and operational coordination, noting that migration justice collaboration between Nigeria and the UK has spanned more than twenty years.
He stressed that Nigeria remains committed to ongoing reforms aimed at modernizing the nation’s immigration system, enhancing passport administration, and facilitating legitimate mobility, while safeguarding national security and economic interests.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s resolve to strike a strategic balance between effective border control and economic development, adding that facilitating credible investment aligns with the Federal Government’s broader economic reform agenda.
The British High Commissioner, Dr. Richard Montgomery, commended Nigeria’s clear policy direction and acknowledged the importance of predictable and efficient systems in achieving shared objectives.
The engagement was described as professional, forward-looking, and solutions-oriented, with both parties reaffirming their commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation in areas of migration management, security collaboration, and economic growth.
The meeting underscores Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the United Kingdom and promoting mutually beneficial cooperation in migration management and economic development.
