The United Kingdom (UK) government has issued at least 430,000 visas to Nigerians for study and relocation in 2024.
British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, disclosed this information during a meeting with Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), in Abuja on Wednesday.
Montgomery assured the Nigerian Federal Government that robust security measures are in place to protect its citizens. He highlighted that despite ongoing unrest, the UK remains a safe environment, bolstered by its diverse population. Additionally, he noted that 60 special courts have been established to address criminal activities associated with the unrest.
The High Commissioner reported that about 400 individuals have been arrested in connection with the violence and that the government is actively pursuing justice against those inciting unrest through hatred and disinformation online.
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NIDCOM Chairperson Dabiri-Erewa confirmed that there have been no reported casualties among Nigerians so far. She added that NIDCOM is in constant contact with the Nigerian High Commission in London and other diaspora groups, none of which have reported any incidents involving Nigerian nationals.
Dabiri-Erewa praised the UK government for its swift response and arrests and advised Nigerians to stay safe, remain vigilant, and follow the travel advisories issued by Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.