G, Re (Recognition of a Nigerian Adoption)

Mr Stuart Whitehouse for the Applicant Ms Eva Holland for the child Mr Mark Smith for the Secretary of State for the Home Department Hearing date: 8 October 2024 ____________________

e) concerns about weaknesses in the checks completed by the Nigerian authorities in relation to adoption applications from prospective adopters who were habitually resident in the United Kingdom and therefore are likely to, in fact, be intended to be intercountry adoptions. Weaknesses are identified in pre-and post-adoption monitoring procedures.

The Order states that it was made in response to significant child safeguarding concerns due to issues affecting the intercountry Nigerian adoption system. This was based on evidence received through international partners including Central Adoption Authorities and diplomatic missions.

a) The circumstances leading to the child becoming available for adoption, including whether any competent authority in the State of origin has made a decision in relation to the adoption or availability for adoption of the child;

b) the relationship that the child has with the prospective adopters, including how and when that relationship was formed;