Migration cooperation: Nigeria, EU move to finalise readmission deal

Nigeria and the European Union are working towards finalizing the long-standing EU-Nigeria Readmission Agreement, a key aspect of their ongoing migration cooperation efforts. The agreement, which was first discussed in 2016, was the subject of talks between Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and EU Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner, in New York on Monday.

During the 81st United Nations General Assembly, the two sides emphasized the importance of concluding the Readmission Agreement, stating that it would lay the groundwork for broader cooperation on migration issues. The Minister highlighted Nigeria's interest in incorporating reintegration support for returnees, infrastructure development assistance, and expanding legal pathways for Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad.

In response, the EU stressed its commitment to creating structured and lawful mobility options, particularly for Nigeria's large and youthful population. They also proposed a broader Migration and Security Cooperation Contract, encompassing strategic dialogue on talent partnerships, mobility, legal pathways, reintegration of returnees, border management, and cooperation with the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, Frontex.

The EU commissioner also expressed interest in developing legal pathways through talent partnerships, which could address skills needs in Europe while providing opportunities for Nigerian professionals and mitigating concerns over brain drain. The meeting also discussed enhanced cooperation to combat irregular migration, with both sides expressing interest in continuing discussions during a proposed visit to Abuja in November 2026.