The United Kingdom government has issued an impressive 430,000 visas to Nigerians seeking to study and relocate to the country in the first seven months of 2024.
This information was revealed by British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, during a meeting with the chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, in Abuja.
Dr. Montgomery’s announcement comes on the heels of his assurance to the Nigerian Government that adequate security measures are in place for its citizens amid the ongoing riots in the UK.
Despite the unrest, the High Commissioner emphasized that the UK remains a safe haven, highlighting the country’s diverse population.
To address the ongoing unrest, Montgomery reported that 60 special courts have been established to tackle criminal activities related to the riots.
Additionally, approximately 400 individuals have been arrested in connection with the violence, with the government actively pursuing justice against those inciting unrest through hatred and disinformation online.
NiDCOM chairperson Abike Dabiri-Erewa confirmed that no Nigerian casualties have been reported so far.
She noted that NiDCOM is in touch with the Nigerian High Commission in London and other diaspora groups, none of which have reported any incidents involving Nigerian nationals.
Dabiri-Erewa commended the UK government for its prompt actions, particularly the arrests of perpetrators, and urged Nigerians to stay safe, vigilant, and follow the travel advisories issued by Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
