Dr. Richard Montgomery, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, announced that the UK government has issued over 430,000 visas to Nigerians seeking to study and relocate to the UK in 2024.
He made this disclosure during a meeting with Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), in Abuja on Wednesday.
Montgomery assured the Federal Government that adequate security measures are in place for Nigerians residing in the UK, despite the ongoing unrest. He emphasized that the UK remains a safe destination, highlighting its diverse population and the establishment of 60 special courts to address criminal activities related to the unrest. Additionally, he mentioned that 400 individuals have been arrested in connection with the violence, with efforts ongoing to hold accountable those spreading hatred and disinformation online.
Abike Dabiri-Erewa confirmed that no Nigerian casualties have been reported in the UK unrest. She stated that NIDCOM is in regular contact with the Nigerian High Commission in London and other diaspora groups, none of whom have reported any incidents involving Nigerian nationals. She commended the UK government for its prompt actions, particularly the arrests, and advised Nigerians to stay safe, remain vigilant, and follow the travel advisories issued by Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
