Nigeria and the European Union have renewed efforts to strengthen migration cooperation, including the conclusion of the long-pending EU-Nigeria Re-Admission Agreement. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and the EU Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, H.E. Magnus Brunner, discussed the matter on September 21, 2026, on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.
Commissioner Brunner stressed the importance of finalising the agreement, initiated in 2016 and further discussed during the 8th Nigeria-EU Ministerial Dialogue in March 2026. Minister Odumegwu-Ojukwu emphasised Nigeria’s interest in a balanced migration framework that provides reintegration support for returnees, infrastructure assistance and expanded legal pathways for Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad.
The EU indicated that these priorities would form part of a broader proposed Migration and Security Cooperation framework covering mobility and legal pathways, reintegration, border management and support from the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex). Both sides also discussed enhanced cooperation against irregular migration and transnational organised crime, including a proposed information-sharing arrangement with Europol.
Commissioner Brunner expressed interest in continuing the discussions during a proposed visit to Abuja in November 2026. The engagement underscores Nigeria’s commitment to a balanced migration partnership with the EU that addresses irregular migration and return while expanding legal mobility, reintegration, security cooperation and opportunities for Nigerian youth.