The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on Tuesday revealed that more than 840,000 foreigners are currently overstaying their visas in Nigeria.

The Minister, who spoke on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Tuesday, described the situation as a significant migration challenge, noting that irregular migration remains a global issue requiring international cooperation.

According to him, addressing visa overstays would help curb related crimes such as human trafficking and smuggling.

Tunji-Ojo further explained that the recently signed Nigeria–UK migration agreement is based on reciprocity and applies strictly to Nigerian nationals.

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Tunji-Ojo emphasised that the Federal Government has been transparent about the deal and that it does not include the transfer of foreign inmates.

He further clarified that the agreement differs from the controversial Rwanda asylum plan, noting that it excludes family members and that each case is treated based on specific legal conditions.

He also assured that Nigerians returned under the arrangement “would be treated with dignity” and in line with their fundamental human rights, adding that “no Nigerian stands to lose from the agreement.”

“Just as we have Nigerian overstayers in the UK, Nigeria is also facing the same challenge. As of this morning, through our upgraded system, we have about 848,290 visa overstayers in Nigeria. These are citizens of different countries residing in Nigeria.

“I have seen reports suggesting that prisoners would be brought into Nigeria. This government will not tolerate such. There is no way this administration will sign that kind of agreement,” he added.