Olusegun Ariyo
The British High Commission in Nigeria says it will engage with relevant partners in the federal government once implementation details of the UK’s new immigration reforms are made available.
This is coming after the release of a White Paper by the UK government on Monday, outlining sweeping changes to the immigration system.
According to the White Paper, the new policy includes ending the social care work visa route, imposing a longer settlement path for migrants, shortening the graduate visa period, and introducing mandatory English language tests for dependents.
While the exact timeline for implementation is not yet announced, the British High Commission has moved to reassure Nigerians of the continued strong bilateral relationship between the two countries.
“The UK enjoys strong, long-standing people-to-people links with Nigeria. 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,” a spokesperson said in a statement.
The Commission stated further that the reforms aim to restore order, control and fairness to the immigration system, reduce net migration and promote economic growth.
It pointed out that changes will occur gradually, reiterating Britain’s commitment to an open and collaborative approach with Nigerian authorities.
The statement came in the wake of recent concerns that the UK may restrict visa applications from countries whose citizens are more likely to overstay, and Nigeria was reportedly among those listed.
The High Commission, despite this, reaffirmed what it described as strong and enduring links between Nigeria and the UK, describing Britain as an outward-looking nation that welcomes diversity and global talent.
