The British High Commission has announced plans to collaborate with the Federal Government of Nigeria on the rollout of new immigration rules outlined in a recently published UK government white paper.
The white paper, released on Monday, proposes significant changes to UK immigration policy. These include phasing out the social care work visa, extending settlement timelines for migrants, and shortening the validity of graduate visas. While no specific implementation timeline was provided, the British High Commission stated that it will engage with Nigerian authorities once further details are available.
In a statement, the Commission emphasized the enduring ties between the UK and Nigeria, saying, “The UK enjoys strong, long-standing people-to-people links with Nigeria. We are proud that the UK remains a top destination for Nigerians to work, study, visit, and settle – and value the contributions they make to the UK.”
It added that the immigration reforms are aimed at restoring fairness and control to the system, reducing net migration, and promoting economic growth.
The Commission reiterated the UK’s openness to global talent and diversity: “We have a proud tradition as an outward-looking nation, investing and trading globally, and welcoming the creativity, ideas, and diversity of those who come to contribute.”
The policy shift follows earlier UK government concerns over visa overstays, particularly from countries like Nigeria. The Labour Party, currently in power, had committed in its election manifesto to significantly reduce net migration, which reached 728,000 in the year ending June 2023.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer now faces increased pressure to act on immigration, especially after recent local elections saw gains by the anti-immigration Reform Party.
