Nigerians have been urged to rethink relocating to the United Kingdom following the announcement of stricter immigration policies by the Conservative Party.
The advisory comes amid concerns that the UK’s study to residency and work settlement pathways may become far more restrictive.
Dipo Awojide, a UK based financial adviser and public affairs analyst, cautioned prospective migrants against hasty decisions such as selling property or resigning from jobs without proper research.
“If you must study abroad, consider other destinations. Do not rush to sell your property or resign your job because the UK system is becoming more restrictive,” he said.
The warning follows the unveiling of the Radical Borders Plan by Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch at the party’s Manchester conference.
The plan proposes sweeping immigration changes, including the creation of a Removals Force modelled after the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, aimed at deporting about 150,000 illegal migrants annually.
Badenoch’s proposals also include doubling the minimum period for Indefinite Leave to Remain from five to ten years, imposing stricter English language requirements, and restricting permanent residency for those who have accessed social housing or government benefits.
The measures are part of a broader effort to strengthen border control and enforce immigration laws more strictly.
Nigeria’s diaspora in the UK, one of the largest African communities in Britain, has expressed concern over how the reforms may affect students, professionals, and long term residents.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission advised citizens to conduct due diligence before migrating, warning that visa overstays or irregular employment could result in deportation or legal penalties.
Critics argued that Badenoch’s plan could worsen labour shortages in critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and hospitality.
Supporters, however, said the reforms would restore public confidence in the immigration system while addressing illegal migration effectively.
Awojide clarified that his warning is not meant to discourage legitimate migration but to encourage careful planning.
