The UK government has deported 43 individuals to Nigeria and Ghana, as part of its “Plan for Change.” The deportees include 15 failed asylum seekers, 11 foreign national offenders who had completed their prison sentences, and seven who voluntarily agreed to leave the country. This marks the second deportation flight to both countries since the recent UK elections, bringing the total number of deportees to 87.
The government’s “Plan for Change” seeks to restore order to the country’s immigration system by ensuring that individuals without the legal right to stay in the UK are swiftly removed.
According to a report published on gov.uk on Friday, the deportations are part of broader efforts to improve immigration enforcement. Since the current government took office, over 24,000 individuals have been deported, a significant 11% increase compared to the same period last year. Additionally, the deportation of foreign criminals has risen by 16%, with 3,594 offenders removed from the UK.
UK officials emphasised that all deportations are conducted in a “dignified and respectful manner.” Angela Eagle, the Minister for Border Security and Asylum, highlighted the importance of international cooperation in securing UK borders. She stated, “This flight demonstrates how international partnerships deliver on working people’s priorities for swift returns and secure borders. Through the Plan for Change, we’re going further in restoring order to a broken system.” She also expressed gratitude towards the governments of Nigeria and Ghana for facilitating the operation.
Baroness Chapman of Darlington, the Minister responsible for Irregular Migration at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), echoed the sentiment, emphasising the critical role of global cooperation in tackling irregular migration.
“Working with other countries and partners around the world is critical to tackling irregular migration, by working internationally, we will meet this global challenge together,” she stated.
