Nigerians living in the United Kingdom without valid immigration documents may now face quicker deportation following a new agreement between both countries aimed at simplifying the return process.

The deal allows the Nigerian government to recognise “UK letters”, temporary identification issued to individuals without passports, eliminating the need to wait for emergency travel certificates before deportation. This is expected to speed up the removal of individuals who have no legal right to remain in the UK.

According to the UK Home Office, the agreement was signed by Nigeria’s Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and UK Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen border control and migration enforcement.

The new arrangement primarily targets three categories of Nigerians in the UK: those who have overstayed their visas, individuals convicted of crimes, and asylum seekers whose applications have been rejected.

Reacting to the development, UK Minister for Border Security and Asylum, Alex Norris, said the agreement reinforces the country’s commitment to tightening its immigration system. He stressed that individuals who violate immigration rules would be promptly removed.

On Nigeria’s part, Mr Tunji-Ojo described the deal as a reflection of the country’s readiness to meet its international obligations, adding that the UK remains a key partner to Nigeria.

The agreement was finalised during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent state visit to the UK, his first since assuming office in 2023, and the first by a Nigerian leader in nearly four decades. The visit included high-level engagements with British officials, including Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and a ceremonial reception hosted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle.

The visit also highlighted the longstanding cultural and economic ties between both nations. Speaking during the event, King Charles III acknowledged Nigeria’s influence on British society, citing contributions in music, film, sports, and law.

While thousands of Nigerians reside legally in the UK, immigration concerns have remained a key issue in bilateral discussions. This latest agreement signals a shift towards stricter enforcement while maintaining diplomatic cooperation between both countries.

Officials say the broader goal of the visit is to strengthen economic and strategic ties, with both nations looking to deepen collaboration in trade, finance, and defence.