The hopes of many Nigerian youths to migrate to the United Kingdom for work or education are dimming following the UK government’s introduction of a new immigration White Paper. Titled “Restoring Control over the Immigration System”, the proposal outlines sweeping reforms aimed at reducing annual net migration by 100,000 people.
Unveiled by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the White Paper introduces measures such as a longer path to settlement, stricter English language requirements, reduced post-study work visa durations, and higher income and education thresholds for skilled worker visas.
Though not yet law, the proposals have sparked concern among Nigerian migrants and those planning to relocate. The final policy will emerge after the draft undergoes parliamentary scrutiny and public consultation.
One contentious proposal includes removing the courts’ power under Article 8 (right to family life) to block deportations, placing full authority with the UK government and parliament instead.
Stricter Rules for Workers and Students
To qualify for skilled work visas, applicants must now present a university degree and meet elevated salary requirements. The UK also plans to increase the Immigration Skills Charge by 32%, the first hike since 2017.
The social care sector—one of the primary avenues for Nigerian migrants—will be particularly affected. New applications from overseas for social care visas will be halted, although those already in the UK can extend or switch visas until 2028, pending review.
International students face reduced post-study visa durations, now capped at 18 months instead of two years. Universities will also need to meet higher compliance standards, including a 95% enrolment rate and a 90% course completion rate. A levy on income from international students is also under consideration.
Furthermore, the path to permanent settlement will now take 10 years, unless the migrant makes significant economic or social contributions.
Nigerians Consider Alternatives
Dr. Oyedele Ogundana, a senior lecturer at Nottingham Trent University, urged Nigerians to reevaluate their plans to move to the UK. “Other countries like Germany, Portugal, Australia, and Canada offer more welcoming immigration environments,” he advised.
In the UK, legal experts are recommending that Nigerian migrants seek legal counsel to understand their options. London-based lawyer Mrs. Efuru Nwapa noted that existing contracts may not be renewed, and urged workers to upskill or enrol in qualifying courses.
Travel agent Mrs. Elizabeth Nwachukwu suggested the reforms might face pushback, potentially leading to amendments. She also encouraged exploring countries like Luxembourg and Scotland for social care opportunities.
Adapt, Upskill, or Reconsider
Dr. Uchechukwu Osuagwu, President of the American Academy of Optometry (Africa chapter), emphasized the need to pursue high-demand professions, especially in tech, healthcare, and engineering. For those in social care, he recommended discussing sponsorship options with employers and pursuing further education.
He also pointed to countries like Germany (with its new Skilled Migration Act), New Zealand, and Ireland as promising alternatives.
“Stay and Build at Home” — Lawyers Urge
Nigeria-based immigration lawyer Yemi Opemuti predicted a sharp drop—possibly up to 50%—in Nigerian migration to the UK. “It reflects a Western trend of discouraging long-term settlement, especially from developing nations,” he said.
He cited soaring financial requirements for student visas, noting that reservation funds have jumped from around £29,000 to nearly £50,000 (roughly N45–50 million), making the UK study route less accessible for Nigerians.
“These policies are effectively telling us to build our country,” Opemuti concluded, while acknowledging that some will still explore alternative destinations like France, Germany, and parts of Asia.
Nigerians React on Social Media
On X (formerly Twitter), user J Adams criticized the UK’s stance: “They colonized and exploited us. Now they create barriers to our freedom of movement. History repeats in different forms.”
On Facebook, Allan Lawrence wrote: “They want your tuition fees but not your presence afterward.” Another user, Oyinbo Adeniyi, added: “We must develop our continent. No more hiding places.”
Ade BusyTee took a more pragmatic view: “They’ll reverse this eventually. No one can survive 10 years in care homes with this workload. They’ll need workers again“.
