The Federal Government of Nigeria and the European Union (EU) have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening migration cooperation with the signing of the EU–Nigeria Readmission Agreement on Tuesday, 10 November 2026, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja.
The EU Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, H.E. Magnus Brunner, described the Agreement as a significant milestone in EU–Nigeria relations. He expressed optimism that the Agreement, which followed a decade of negotiations, would deliver immense benefits for both parties.
In her remarks, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, commended both parties for their steadfastness throughout ten years of negotiations, which culminated in the successful conclusion of the Agreement.
Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu explained that the Agreement was a clear reflection of the shared commitment of the EU and Nigeria to strengthening migration cooperation.
She noted that the Agreement underscored Nigeria’s commitment to the welfare, well-being and dignified return of its citizens. She expressed confidence that the pact would serve as a catalyst for enhanced cooperation between Nigeria and the EU in areas of mutual interest, including education, capacity-building and vocational training.
The Readmission Agreement is an important instrument that formalises migration cooperation between the EU and Nigeria, clearly outlining the reciprocal obligations of both parties to the safety, dignity and human rights of their citizens during readmission processes.