London – The United Kingdom government confirmed Friday it deported 43 people to Nigeria and Ghana. The confirmation appeared in an official report published on the government’s website.
Breakdown of Deported Individuals
The group sent back included several categories. The group included fifteen failed asylum seekers whose claims had been rejected. Eleven were foreign national offenders who had served their prison time. Additionally, seven individuals chose to return to their home countries voluntarily.
UK authorities stated these removals are part of the government’s ongoing “Plan for Change.” This initiative aims to tighten UK border security. Officials emphasized the deportations were conducted “in a dignified and respectful manner,” respecting individual rights.
Recent Deportations and International Cooperation
This flight represents the second deportation operation to Nigeria and Ghana since the last UK general election. In total, the UK deports to Nigeria and Ghana 87 individuals during this period.
This mission occurred shortly after the UK hosted an Organised Immigration Crime Summit. Representatives from over 40 countries, including Nigeria and Ghana, attended. The summit focused on strengthening global efforts against human smuggling gangs and improving border security worldwide. International cooperation was a key theme for managing migration and crime networks.
Deportation Numbers Under the Current Government
Since the current UK administration took office, deportation figures have risen. Over 24,000 people have been deported overall. This marks an 11% increase compared to the previous year’s figures. Removals of foreign national offenders saw a notable 16% rise, with 3,594 such individuals deported.
UK Minister for Border Security and Asylum Angela Eagle highlighted these numbers. “This flight demonstrates how international partnerships deliver… swift returns and secure borders,” she said. Eagle added that the “Plan for Change” seeks to “restore order,” speed up returns, and close costly asylum hotels.
Acknowledgement of Partner Countries
The UK government expressed thanks to the Nigerian and Ghanaian authorities. They acknowledged their help in facilitating the deportation process. Both nations reaffirmed a shared goal to address irregular migration and combat organised immigration crime. The UK deports to Nigeria and Ghana effectively through this collaboration.
Baroness Chapman of Darlington, Minister for Irregular Migration, stated, “Working internationally is critical to tackling irregular migration.” She welcomed the “strong cooperation with Ghana and Nigeria” to return those without permission to be in the UK.
Officials believe these partnerships are crucial for meaningful, long-term reform of the UK’s immigration system.
Kayode Ojo
