UK gov’t denies approving 430,000 Nigerian visa applications in 2024

The British government has refuted claims that it approved approximately 430,000 visa applications from Nigerians this year, a figure previously reported by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM).

In a tweet on Friday, August 9, 2024, the British High Commission in Nigeria addressed the issue, correcting the information shared by NIDCOM. According to the High Commission, the actual number of UK visas issued to Nigerians between April 2023 and March 2024 was 255,000.

This clarification came in response to a press release from NIDCOM, which had highlighted the outcomes of a meeting between UK official Dr. Montgomery and NIDCOM Chairman/CEO, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa. During the meeting, NIDCOM reported that Montgomery had stated approximately 430,000 Nigerian visa applications were successfully processed in 2024.

The discussions also touched on recent violent protests in the United Kingdom, with Montgomery assuring the Nigerian diaspora of their safety. “The UK is home to people from diverse countries and races, and it will continue to welcome qualified individuals to live, study, and work. We will not accept discrimination or attacks against any community,” Montgomery was quoted as saying.

Dabiri-Erewa confirmed that no Nigerians had been reported dead or affected by the unrest so far. She also praised the UK government for its swift action in addressing the violence and urged Nigerians in the UK to remain vigilant and adhere to travel advisories issued by Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Nigerian government had earlier issued a travel alert in light of the violent demonstrations, advising citizens planning to visit the UK to exercise caution and be aware of potential risks.