Nigeria and the European Union have intensified efforts to bolster cooperation on migration, focusing on the long-pending EU-Nigeria Readmission Agreement. The agreement was a key topic of discussion between Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and EU Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner, at the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York. The proposed agreement aims to establish a framework for cooperation on migration.
The EU-Nigeria Readmission Agreement was first initiated in 2016 and has been extensively discussed during the 8th Nigeria-EU Ministerial Dialogue in March 2026. Commissioner Brunner emphasized the importance of concluding the agreement, which would serve as a basis for broader cooperation between Nigeria and the EU on migration. The agreement is expected to facilitate the return of irregular migrants and enhance cooperation on migration management.
Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu highlighted Nigeria's interests in ensuring that migration cooperation includes support for returnees, infrastructure development, and expanded legal pathways for Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad. She stressed the need for structured and lawful mobility opportunities, particularly for Nigeria's large and youthful population, while ensuring that migration cooperation supports the country's development interests.
The EU delegation has incorporated Nigeria's concerns into the proposed framework, which covers strategic dialogue on talent partnerships, mobility, and legal pathways, as well as reintegration of returnees and border management. The proposed cooperation also involves an arrangement for information exchange with Europol to strengthen Nigeria's capacity to combat transnational organized crime.
Commissioner Brunner expressed interest in developing legal migration pathways through talent partnerships, which could address skills needs in Europe while creating opportunities for Nigerian professionals. This approach aims to mitigate concerns over brain drain and promote mutually beneficial migration cooperation. The two sides also discussed enhanced cooperation against irregular migration.
Commissioner Brunner proposed a visit to Abuja in November 2026 to continue discussions on migration cooperation, with a specific date to be agreed upon by both sides. The visit is expected to further strengthen Nigeria-EU relations and facilitate progress on the Readmission Agreement. Nigeria and the EU are committed to enhancing their cooperation on migration and other areas of mutual interest.
The strengthened cooperation on migration between Nigeria and the EU reflects a shared commitment to addressing the complexities of migration management. By working together, both parties aim to promote safe, orderly, and regular migration, while addressing the root causes of irregular migration and enhancing cooperation on border management and security.
Key points
- Nigeria and EU discuss Readmission Agreement to strengthen migration cooperation
- Cooperation aims to address skills needs in Europe and create opportunities for Nigerian professionals
- Proposed visit to Abuja in November 2026 to further discussions on migration cooperation
