Market News
UK affirms ties with Nigeria amid immigration reform plans - PUNCH
BY Adekunle Sulaimon
Following the release of the United Kingdom Immigration White Paper on Monday, the British High Commission in Nigeria has issued a formal statement addressing the potential implications and reaffirming the UK’s relationship with Nigeria.
A spokesperson for the British High Commission said the UK values its strong, long-standing ties with Nigeria, highlighting the continued popularity of the UK as a destination for Nigerians seeking opportunities to work, study, visit, and settle.
The spokesperson explained that the newly released White Paper outlines planned reforms to the UK’s legal migration system. The reforms aim to restore order, control, and fairness, while also reducing net migration and supporting economic growth.
According to the High Commission, the implementation of these changes will be gradual, and the UK government intends to consult with relevant partners in Nigeria’s federal government once further details become available.
The statement concluded by emphasizing the UK’s tradition as an outward-looking nation that welcomes the contributions of those who come to the country, recognising the creativity, ideas, and diversity they bring.
The statement read, “The UK enjoys strong, long-standing people-to-people links with Nigeria. We are proud that the UK is still considered a top destination for Nigerians to work, study, visit and settle – and value the contribution this brings to the UK.”
“The UK White Paper sets out reforms to legal migration, including restoring order, control and fairness to the system, bringing down net migration and promoting economic growth. Changes to the system will happen over a period of time and we will engage with relevant partners in the Federal Government of Nigeria once more information about implementation details are available.”
“We have a proud tradition as an outward-looking nation, investing and trading abroad, and welcoming the creativity, ideas and diversity of those who come to contribute here.”
