Nigeria and the European Union have renewed efforts to conclude the long-pending EU-Nigeria Readmission Agreement as both sides seek broader cooperation on migration.

The issue was discussed when Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, met the EU Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner, on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Brunner stressed the importance of concluding the agreement, which was initiated in 2016 and extensively discussed during the eighth Nigeria-EU Ministerial Dialogue in March 2026.

He said its conclusion would provide a basis for broader cooperation between Nigeria and the EU on migration.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu, however, emphasised Nigeria’s interest in ensuring that the migration framework includes reintegration support for returnees, infrastructure development assistance and expanded legal pathways for Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad.

She also stressed the need for structured and lawful mobility opportunities for Nigeria’s large and youthful population while ensuring that migration cooperation supports the country’s development interests.

The EU delegation said Nigeria’s concerns had been incorporated into the proposed framework and disclosed plans for a broader Migration and Security Cooperation Compact.

The proposed framework would cover strategic dialogue on talent partnerships, legal mobility pathways, reintegration of returnees and border management, with support from the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, Frontex.

It would also explore information-sharing arrangements with Europol to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to combat transnational organised crime.

Brunner highlighted the EU’s interest in talent partnerships that could address skills shortages in Europe while creating opportunities for Nigerian professionals and helping to mitigate concerns over brain drain.

The meeting also considered enhanced cooperation against irregular migration, with Brunner noting that progress in this area could facilitate greater opportunities for legal migration.

He expressed interest in continuing discussions during a proposed visit to Abuja in November 2026, with the specific date yet to be agreed by both sides.

The EU and Nigeria have been negotiating a readmission agreement since 2016, with discussions experiencing periods of suspension before resuming in subsequent years.