The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, has announced that the United Kingdom has issued over 430,000 visas to Nigerians seeking to study and relocate to the UK in 2024. This revelation came during a meeting with Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, in Abuja on Wednesday.
Montgomery assured the Nigerian government that the UK remains a safe haven for Nigerians despite the ongoing unrest. He highlighted the country’s diverse population and the measures in place to ensure security, including 60 special courts established to tackle criminal activities related to the unrest.
The High Commissioner also reported that 400 people have been arrested in connection with the violence, with the government actively pursuing justice against those inciting unrest through hatred and disinformation online.
Abike Dabiri-Erewa confirmed that no Nigerian casualties have been reported so far in the UK unrest. She commended the UK government for its swift actions, including the arrests, and advised Nigerians to remain safe and vigilant, adhering to travel advisories issued by Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The meeting aimed to address concerns and ensure the safety of Nigerians in the UK amid the ongoing unrest. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining a strong and safe relationship between the two nations.