The British High Commission in Nigeria has pledged to work closely with the Federal Government on the implementation of the United Kingdom’s newly proposed immigration reforms, as outlined in a recent White Paper released by the UK government.
The new policies — which aim to tighten migration routes and reduce net migration — include the elimination of the social care visa, longer settlement requirements, and a shorter duration for the graduate visa route, among other measures.
While specific timelines for the implementation are yet to be confirmed, the High Commission emphasized that it will engage Nigerian authorities once the details are finalized.
“The UK enjoys strong, long-standing people-to-people links with Nigeria,” the statement read. “We are proud that the UK is still considered a top destination for Nigerians to work, study, visit, and settle – and value the contribution this brings to the UK.”
Reforms Aimed at ‘Restoring Order’
According to the British High Commission, the immigration reforms are designed to restore order, control, and fairness to the UK’s migration system, while also promoting economic growth and reducing overall numbers.
“Changes to the system will happen over a period of time, and we will engage with relevant partners in the Federal Government of Nigeria once more information about implementation details is available,” it added.
The UK reiterated its tradition of being an “outward-looking nation,” welcoming contributions from global talents while balancing the need to manage migration responsibly.
Background: Rising Migration, Political Pressure
These sweeping reforms follow increasing domestic pressure on UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, whose Labour Party is grappling with political fallout after recent local election gains by the anti-immigration Reform Party.
Net migration to the UK peaked at 906,000 in 2023, a record high, before dropping slightly to 728,000 by June 2024. That figure is still significantly higher than the pre-2020 average of around 200,000 annually.
Previously, UK authorities indicated that Nigerians were among nationalities most likely to overstay their visas, prompting considerations for tighter controls on visa categories, particularly in social care and student migration pathways.
