By Gabriel Ameh
Nigeria and the European Union (EU) have signed a readmission agreement after a decade of negotiations, marking a major step towards strengthening migration cooperation and diplomatic relations between both parties.
The agreement was signed on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja, with both sides pledging to promote safe, orderly and dignified migration.
EU Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, H.E. Magnus Brunner, who led the European delegation, described the agreement as a significant milestone in relations between Nigeria and the European Union.
He expressed optimism that the agreement, which followed ten years of negotiations, would deliver substantial benefits to both parties and provide a stronger framework for cooperation on migration-related issues.
Speaking at the ceremony, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu, commended both parties for their commitment and perseverance throughout the negotiation process.
She described the successful conclusion of the agreement as evidence of the shared determination of Nigeria and the EU to strengthen cooperation on migration management.
The minister stressed that the agreement reflects Nigeria’s commitment to protecting the welfare, well-being and dignity of its citizens, particularly during return and readmission processes.
She also expressed confidence that the partnership would open new opportunities for cooperation in other areas of mutual interest, including education, capacity building and vocational training.
The Readmission Agreement establishes a formal framework for migration cooperation between Nigeria and the European Union, setting out the reciprocal responsibilities of both parties.
It also provides for the protection of the safety, dignity and human rights of citizens involved in readmission procedures.
The agreement is expected to strengthen engagement between Nigeria and the EU on migration management while providing a structured basis for addressing issues relating to the return of individuals under the applicable procedures.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja.
Media360Impact
