The United Kingdom has deported 43 Nigerians as part of its intensified efforts to tighten immigration control and enforce border policies.
According to a report released Friday on the UK government’s official website, the deported individuals included 15 failed asylum seekers, 11 foreign nationals who had served prison terms, and seven others who voluntarily returned home.
The deportation flight, which also included individuals bound for Ghana, forms part of the UK’s “Plan for Change” initiative — a strategy aimed at reinforcing immigration laws and removing those without legal stay as quickly as possible.
This marks the second joint deportation flight to Nigeria and Ghana since the last general election, bringing the combined number of deportees under this administration to 87.
UK officials noted a strengthened migration partnership with Nigeria, highlighting that since the current government took office, over 24,000 people have been deported — an 11% increase compared to the previous year. Additionally, the removal of foreign national offenders has jumped by 16%, with 3,594 criminals deported.
Authorities stressed that all removals were conducted “in a dignified and respectful manner.”
Commenting on the operation, the UK’s Minister for Border Security and Asylum, Angela Eagle, stated, “This flight shows how strong international cooperation is delivering on the priorities of British citizens — ensuring swift returns and secure borders. We are taking bold steps to fix a broken system, close down costly asylum hotels, and restore order.”
She also expressed appreciation to the governments of Nigeria and Ghana for their collaboration in facilitating the deportations.
Baroness Chapman of Darlington, Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Minister for Irregular Migration, also praised the operation, describing international cooperation as essential to tackling the global challenge of irregular migration.
This action follows the Organised Immigration Crime Summit, where the UK engaged over 40 countries, including Nigeria and Ghana, to combat smuggling gangs and bolster global border security,” she said.
The UK government reiterated its commitment to intensifying returns and strengthening border protections through international alliances and comprehensive immigration reforms.
