The Federal Government of Nigeria has signed an agreement with the United Kingdom to facilitate the deportation of failed Nigerian asylum seekers and convicted offenders.

The development was announced on Thursday by the UK Home Office, following engagements during the visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the UK.

Under the agreement, Nigerian nationals who have exhausted all legal avenues to remain in the UK, as well as those convicted of crimes, will be returned to Nigeria. The deal also covers individuals who have overstayed their visas.

According to reports, about 961 Nigerian asylum seekers in the UK have been denied refugee status after exhausting their appeal rights, while an additional 1,110 Nigerian nationals classified as offenders are awaiting deportation by UK authorities.

The agreement is part of broader efforts by both countries to strengthen migration control, enhance border security, and ensure compliance with immigration laws.