Senior officials from the United Kingdom (UK) convened a significant meeting with a Nigerian delegation to address migration, justice, home affairs, and other pertinent issues between the two nations. The meeting, held in London on Tuesday, emphasized the robust collaboration between Nigeria and the UK, highlighting commitments across various priority areas of mutual interest.
Discussions during the meeting delved into the insecurity challenges facing Nigeria, with both parties acknowledging the UK’s support in addressing these issues promptly.
A joint communique, signed by Director of the UK Home Office, Asim Hafeez, and Nigeria’s Ambassador from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Akinremi Bolaji, was issued by the UK on Friday.
The communique underscored the positive collaboration between the two countries in addressing migration and countering criminal activities. Both nations agreed to enhance awareness of their respective internal systems and cultures.
Regarding serious and organized crime, Nigeria and the UK appreciated ongoing efforts to prevent youth involvement in criminal activities and combat organized crime groups involved in human trafficking and illicit trade. They also explored opportunities to collaborate in combating online fraud.
Both parties acknowledged the improved engagement and information sharing between their governments and high commissions. They pledged to address outstanding issues and promote joint efforts to the public. The significance of repatriating nationals with no right to remain in each other’s territories was emphasized, facilitated by the 2022 Memorandum of Understanding on Migration Partnership.
The UK and Nigeria pledged to deepen their migration partnership and welcomed progress towards a criminal record data-sharing arrangement. Collaborative efforts underscored the shared commitment to tackling crime and destabilizing factors directly.
Both nations committed to further meetings to assess progress and maintain regular engagement between the Nigerian High Commission and the UK Home Office in London.
The next annual Migration, Justice, and Home Affairs talks, hosted by Nigeria in 2025, will include contributions from relevant ministries, departments, and agencies from both countries.
