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Tag: UK

  • 13 key things to know as UK ends overseas social care recruitment

    13 key things to know as UK ends overseas social care recruitment

    The United Kingdom has published a comprehensive new immigration white paper outlining significant changes across various sectors.

    A white paper is an official government document that outlines final policy proposals and can sometimes serve as a draft for future legislation.

    Released on Monday by Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s administration, the extensive 82-page document marks a sharp policy shift aimed at reducing immigration and reshaping the UK’s border control strategy.

    In a press briefing, Starmer emphasized that the plan is designed to “regain control of our borders,” blaming the previous Conservative government for a surge in immigration levels.

    “This plan will reduce migration — that’s a promise,” he stated. “If additional action is needed to ease pressure on housing and public services, we’ll take it. But this isn’t just about numbers.” 

    Here are key things to know about UK ban on overseas social care recruitment

    1. Immediate Ban on Overseas Social Care Recruitment

    – The UK has halted all new international applications for social care roles.

    – Existing care workers already in the UK may extend or switch visas only until 2028.

    – The move is aimed at reducing exploitation of the route and restoring public trust.

    2. End of Dependence on Low-Wage Migrant Labour

    – Employers must invest in long-term domestic workforce development.

    – Social care providers must shift away from overseas recruitment toward UK-trained staff.

    3. New Immigration White Paper Released

    – Titled “Restoring Control Over the Immigration System,” the 82-page White Paper outlines sweeping changes to the UK’s migration rules.

    – It serves as the final version of the government’s policy vision under Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

     4. Post-Study Stay for Graduates Cut Short

    – International graduates can now remain in the UK for only 18 months after completing their studies, down from five years.

    5. Stricter Rules for Student Visas and Sponsors

    – Educational institutions will face tighter requirements to recruit international students.

    – These changes aim to ensure genuine study intentions and reduce system abuse.

    6. English Language Tests for Dependants

    – For the first time, dependants of visa applicants must pass English tests.

    – This applies to more immigration routes and aims to promote better integration.

    Read Also: UK to restrict visas for Nigerians, Pakistanis amid immigration crackdown

    7. Settlement Period for Migrants Doubled

    – The qualifying period for indefinite leave to remain (settlement) has increased from 5 to 10 years.

    – Only “high-value” contributors in sectors like health and tech may qualify sooner.

    8. Tougher Rules on Deporting Foreign Offenders

    – The Home Office must be informed of all foreign nationals convicted of crimes, even without prison time.

    – Deportation thresholds will now consider a broader range of factors, including violence against women.

     9. Plans for Faster Deportations

    – The UK aims to accelerate deportation processes, though the specific measures remain unclear.

    – Cooperation from other countries will be crucial for effective enforcement.

    10. New Labour Market Evidence Group Formed

    – This group will guide the government’s decisions on which occupations face real shortages.

    – Only sectors with proven long-term shortages and a workforce plan may recruit internationally.

    11. Higher Salary Thresholds for Skilled Workers

    – The minimum salary requirement for skilled visas will be raised.

    – Salary discounts for shortage roles are abolished to prevent wage undercutting.

    12. “Skilled Must Mean Skilled”

    – The definition of skilled work is being tightened under the points-based immigration system.

    – Jobs failing to meet new standards will no longer be visa-eligible.

    13. Employers Must Prioritize Local Hiring

    – UK businesses must prove domestic recruitment efforts before turning to overseas hiring.

    – The government emphasizes “training, not reliance” on migration.

  • UK announces end to overseas social care recruitment 

    UK announces end to overseas social care recruitment 

    The United Kingdom has published a comprehensive new immigration white paper outlining significant changes across various sectors.

    A white paper is an official government document that outlines final policy proposals and can sometimes serve as a draft for future legislation.

    Released on Monday by Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s administration, the extensive 82-page document marks a sharp policy shift aimed at reducing immigration and reshaping the UK’s border control strategy.

    In a press briefing, Starmer emphasized that the plan is designed to “regain control of our borders,” blaming the previous Conservative government for a surge in immigration levels.

    “This plan will reduce migration — that’s a promise,” he stated. “If additional action is needed to ease pressure on housing and public services, we’ll take it. But this isn’t just about numbers.” 

    Ending Overseas Social Care Visas

    The UK will halt international recruitment for social care roles, a route that previously enabled doctors, nurses, and adult care professionals to work with approved employers, such as the NHS.

    This change aligns with broader reforms to raise the skill threshold for migrants.

    Those already in the UK on social care visas may extend or switch their status until 2028, during a transitional period as a domestic workforce strategy is developed.

    Extended Settlement Requirements

    Migrants will now need to live in the UK for 10 years — double the previous five — before becoming eligible for permanent residency.

    This change is intended to ensure only individuals making significant economic contributions remain.

    Key sectors identified as “high-value” include healthcare and tech.

    Read Also: UK to restrict visa applications from Nigeria, Pakistan, others

    Reduced Post-Study Stay for Graduates

    The post-graduation stay period for international students will be cut from five years to just 18 months.

    Universities will face stricter eligibility requirements for sponsoring international students.

    English Language Tests for Dependants

    For the first time, dependants of visa holders will be required to pass English language tests.

    These new rules will apply to a wider range of visa categories and will be monitored for effectiveness over time.

    Tighter Deportation Guidelines

    The Home Office will now be informed of all foreign nationals convicted of any offense, not just those sentenced to prison.

    New criteria for deportation will consider the seriousness of crimes, especially those involving violence against women.

     Accelerated Deportation Plans

    To speed up the deportation of foreign nationals, the UK plans to introduce undisclosed measures to secure cooperation from foreign governments.

    This comes amid tensions with Rwanda over a failed asylum agreement.

    Reduced International Recruitment

    A new Labour Market Evidence Group will assess employment data to determine which sectors genuinely need foreign workers.

    Only roles with documented long-term shortages and workforce strategies will qualify for overseas recruitment.

    The minimum salary for skilled visas will increase, and discounted thresholds for certain jobs will be eliminated.

    In a final statement, Starmer warned that without robust immigration controls, the UK could become “an island of strangers” rather than a united nation.

  • UK to restrict visas for Nigerians, Pakistanis amid immigration crackdown

    UK to restrict visas for Nigerians, Pakistanis amid immigration crackdown

    The United Kingdom is reportedly preparing to impose new visa restrictions on Nigerian, Pakistani, and Sri Lankan nationals as part of an aggressive effort to reform its immigration system and curb visa abuse.

    According to a report by The Times, the UK Home Office has identified citizens from these countries as among the most likely to overstay their visas and later seek asylum—a move that grants them permanent residency rights if approved.

    In response, officials said the affected nationalities may soon face tougher requirements when applying for student or work visas.

    “Our upcoming Immigration White Paper will set out a comprehensive plan to restore order to our broken immigration system,” a Home Office spokesperson said.

    Read Also: UK opens new visa application centres in Enugu, Port Harcourt

    The Home Office said it is building intelligence systems to identify individuals likely to exploit the visa system early in the process.

    “We keep the visa system under constant review, and where we detect trends which may undermine our immigration rules, we will not hesitate to take action,” the statement added.

    The full details of the proposed visa changes will be released later in May as part of the UK’s long-awaited Immigration White Paper.

  • UK opens new visa application centres in Enugu, Port Harcourt

    UK opens new visa application centres in Enugu, Port Harcourt

    The British High Commission in Nigeria has announced the opening of new UK Visa Application Centres in Enugu and Port Harcourt to enhance access for Nigerian travellers during the summer season.

    In a statement released in Abuja, the High Commission said the new centres will allow visa applicants to submit their documents and enrol biometrics locally, easing the travel process for residents of Enugu and Rivers States.

    The High Commission noted that the new Premium Application Centres are operated by VFS Global, which already manages existing state-of-the-art centres in Abuja, Ikeja, and Victoria Island in Lagos. 

    These new locations aim to meet the increasing demand for UK visas, especially during peak travel periods.

    Hon. Lord David Hanson, Minister of State at the UK Home Office, said: “The government is pleased to be able to reopen the Premium Visa Application Centres in both Port Harcourt and Enugu. In 2024, we received more than 230,000 visa applications from Nigerian nationals across all visa routes. These new centres will offer greater convenience for applicants and reflect the strength of the UK–Nigeria relationship.”

    Alok Singhal, Head of Sub-Saharan Africa at VFS Global, added that the new centres would provide the same high-quality services offered at their existing centres. “We are pleased to open these conveniently located touchpoints, which allow us to cater to a larger number of UK-bound travellers from Nigeria,” he said.

    Read Also: APPLY FOR YOUR UK VISA NOW AT THE NEW PREMIUM APPLICATION CENTRES IN ENUGU AND PORT HARCOURT

    Applicants using the Premium Application Centres can also access a range of value-added services, including document upload assistance, real-time application status updates, and courier return of documents.

    The travellers may book the “Keep My Passport While Applying” service, which enables them to retain their passport after submitting their application and biometrics, only resubmitting it once a decision has been made.

    As a partner to UK Visas and Immigration since 2003, VFS Global offered visa services in 58 countries before the new contract and was awarded the contract to provide UK visa services in 142 countries worldwide in 2023.

  • UK, TLG Capital partner to revive Nigeria’s manufacturing sector

    UK, TLG Capital partner to revive Nigeria’s manufacturing sector

    One of the UK’s flagship economic development programmes for Africa, Manufacturing Africa (MA), yesterday signed a strategic partnership agreement with London-based investment firm, TLG Capital, to strengthen and improve the eligibility of Nigerian manufacturing companies to raise capital through TLG’s Africa Growth Impact Fund II (AGIF II).

    In a significant milestone, TLG Capital also confirmed the first close of the TLG AGIF II fund, raising $75 million towards its $200 million target. The fund is anchored by the World Bank’s International Finance Corporation (IFC) and backed by a coalition of forward-looking investors: Swedfund, Norfund, and Bpifrance.

    Through this partnership, the UK-funded Manufacturing Africa programme will fast track investment by supporting Africa Growth Impact Fund II with due diligence, corporate finance, ESG compliance, gender inclusion, supply chain and manufacturing operations support to eligible manufacturing companies targeted for investment by the fund. In a challenging economic climate, this collaboration is designed to support Nigerian manufacturers in accessing the capital they need to grow, create jobs and drive long term economic growth.

    Read Also; FG declares public holiday

    In view of this, the first Nigerian company enlisted for the UK Manufacturing Africa’s support to raise $7.5 million debt finance under this arrangement is Terra Aqua; an aluminium recycler based in Ogun State. TLG Capital has expressed interest in investing this whole amount in the company subject to meeting environmental, social and governance (ESG) and other operational performance indicators that Manufacturing Africa will guide the company through. This single deal has the potential to create 200 direct jobs and 752 indirect jobs utilising a recycling process that requires 95per cent less energy than producing primary aluminium.

    Since 2020, Manufacturing Africa has supported 41 deals that are seeking to raise over $1 billion of foreign direct investment and create 38,000 direct jobs across Nigeria.  Across Africa as a whole, the programme has raised almost $2.4billion and created 102,000 new jobs. With the financial close of 13 of these deals, the programme has directly facilitated the inflow of over $150 million of foreign direct investment (FDI) into Nigeria.

    Speaking on this latest partnership, the UK Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Mr. Jonny Baxter, said: “A strong manufacturing sector is key to driving economic growth and industrialisation in Nigeria and across Africa. By supporting TLG Capital, we’re fostering greater capital flows into Nigeria, which in turn supports job creation, generates wealth and secures a prosperous future. TLG Capital is one of the key partners we are working with to improve foreign direct investments that support manufacturing in Nigeria, which will have a lasting positive impact on both our economies”

    Manufacturing Africa programme Team Leader Thomas Pascoe said: “This landmark investment emphasises the scale of the development opportunity in manufacturing across Africa. Manufacturing Africa has already helped create 102,000 jobs through the $2.4billion of FDI we have supported, and we look forward to working closely with TLG Capital to support investments by the AGID II fund.”

    Co-Founder of TLG Capital, Isha Doshi said: “Today, one in four SME loans in Africa is under stress, and yet, the entrepreneurial spirit is unshaken. AGIF II is about capital that understands context—financing that’s flexible, strategic, and backed by advisory horsepower from Manufacturing Africa. TLG AGIF II brings together both capital and capacity building.”

  • Coalition seeks UK’s input in probe of British Major

    Coalition seeks UK’s input in probe of British Major

    A coalition of civil society organisations has called on the British government to collaborate with Nigerian authorities to fully investigate the activities of a British Army major arrested for alleged illegal arms procurement in Delta State.

    In a letter to the British high commissioner in Abuja dated April 28, the coalition stressed the need to investigate the major’s activities and any links he may have with groups intent on fuelling unrest in Nigeria.

    The letter was signed by Dr. Nwambu Gabriel, leader; Zekeri Momoh-Saliu, secretary; Mohammed Idris; and Hugo Okafor.

    Addressing reporters after submitting the letter in the British High Commission in Abuja, Gabriel emphasised that such collaboration is essential to maintaining security and stability in the region.

    Copies were also sent to the director-general of Department of State Services (DSS), Abuja.

    The organisations making up the coalition include Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness, Coalition for Democratic Watchdogs, Initiative for Voter Awareness and Electoral Reforms, and Global Centre for Conscience Living Against Corruption.

    Read Also: NFIU raises alarm over 735 mass abductions in Nigeria in six years

    They further urged the British government to trace origins of the firearms and ammunition recovered, to prevent similar incidents in future.

    They underscored importance of background checks on arms trafficking routes and tighter controls on military assets to ensure they are not diverted for unlawful purposes.

    In addition, the coalition appealed for sustained support from United Kingdom towards efforts to maintain peace and security, particularly in regions vulnerable to conflict.

    They stressed that such support and vigilance are crucial in bolstering Nigeria’s internal security architecture amid concerns of politically and ethnically motivated violence.

    They called for assurances that any national of United Kingdom found to be involved in illegal arms procurement and trafficking in Nigeria would be held accountable.

    They noted that failure to act could embolden further violations and damage relations between the two countries.

    The call to action follows a security development on April 25, when DSS in Asaba seized 50 AK-47 rifles, six pump-action shotguns, and over 3,000 rounds of ammunition.

    Associates of the British major were arrested in Asaba, while the major was intercepted in Lagos about to board a flight to United Kingdom.

    Preliminary investigations suggest that the weapons were allegedly procured to instigate unrest in Warri, Delta State, amid tensions over the delineation of wards and polling units by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    This action followed a Supreme Court ruling delivered on December 2, 2022, which reportedly angered certain local factions.

    The Major is alleged to have strong connections with a prominent first-class traditional ruler in Delta State, raising serious concerns about the role of influential figures in fueling local conflicts.

    The recovered arms cache, combined with the Major’s alleged high-profile links, has heightened fears of a deliberate attempt to destabilize the region.

    Highlighting the implications of the incident, the CSOs emphasized that it not only points to a disturbing trend in illegal arms flow but also places a spotlight on the potential compromise of professional standards within the British military establishment.

    They stressed that the presence of foreign military personnel involved in illegal activities within Nigeria’s borders demands immediate and decisive action.

    The organizations maintained that swift cooperation between Nigeria and the United Kingdom is critical to ensuring accountability, stemming the tide of arms proliferation, and preserving the integrity of democratic institutions in Nigeria.

    The coalition commended the Nigerian security agencies, especially the DSS for their efforts.

    It expressed optimism that a cooperative approach between Nigeria and the United Kingdom would lead to a comprehensive investigation and tangible action to curb the inflow of illicit arms, and ultimately, promote peace and stability in Nigeria.

  • UK deports 43 to Nigeria, Ghana as border security plan intensifies

    UK deports 43 to Nigeria, Ghana as border security plan intensifies

    The United Kingdom Government has deported 43 individuals, including failed asylum seekers and convicted foreign offenders to Nigeria and Ghana as part of its ongoing border security measures under the “Plan for Change.”

    According to a report published Friday on gov.uk, the deportees included 15 failed asylum seekers, 11 foreign national offenders who had completed their prison terms, and seven individuals who voluntarily agreed to return.

    This marks the second deportation flight to Nigeria and Ghana since the last general election, raising the total number of deportees to these two West African nations to 87. Officials highlight that this reflects strengthening diplomatic ties and cooperation on immigration enforcement between the UK, Nigeria, and Ghana.

    Since the current administration assumed office, over 24,000 individuals have been deported—a figure representing an 11% increase compared to the previous year. Deportations of foreign national offenders specifically rose by 16%, with 3,594 criminals removed from the country.

    Authorities emphasised that all removals were conducted “in a dignified and respectful manner.”

    Angela Eagle, the UK’s Minister for Border Security and Asylum, commented, “This flight demonstrates how international partnerships deliver on working people’s priorities for swift returns and secure borders. Through the Plan for Change, we’re going further in restoring order to a broken system, accelerating returns of those with no right to be here and closing expensive asylum hotels.”

    She thanked the governments of Nigeria and Ghana for their role in facilitating the deportations, stressing the mutual commitment to disrupting organized immigration crime.

    Baroness Chapman of Darlington, Minister for Irregular Migration at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), added, “Working internationally is critical to tackling irregular migration. I welcome our strong cooperation with Ghana and Nigeria to return those with no right to be in the UK and deliver on the Plan for Change.”

    This deportation operation follows the Organised Immigration Crime Summit, where the UK convened over 40 countries, including Nigeria and Ghana, to intensify the global fight against smuggling gangs and secure international borders.

  • UK releases details of dead Nigerians with unclaimed estates

    UK releases details of dead Nigerians with unclaimed estates

    The UK Government has released a list of unclaimed estates belonging to individuals from different countries who died in the UK, including 58 Nigerians.

     These estates have been listed as “Bona Vacantia,” meaning they have been unclaimed for a certain period and are now the property of the Crown ¹.

    In the updated list released on Monday, March 24, the UK government released that a total of 5,806 people from different countries died with no one to claim their properties.

    The list includes the names, dates of birth and death and places of death of the individuals.  

    The 58 identified Nigerians on the list include:

    S/N Property Owner Place of Birth Date of Death

    day/month/year Place of Death Marital Status BV Reference

    1 Arbel Aai’Lotta’Qua Abouarh Nigeria 5/2/1998 Chiswick London W4 Widower BV984930/1

    2 Adenike Adebiyi Nigeria Unknown Hackney London N1 Spinster BV21003032/1

    3 Akanni Jeremiah Adejumo Nigeria 31/03/2017 Muswell Hill London N10 Unknown BV21711076/1

    4 Solomon Adekanmibi Nigeria 31/01/2021 Colchester Essex Unknown BV22207473/1

    5 Ganiyu Akambi Aderinto Not specified 20/07/2016 Archway London N19 Unknown BV21808132/1

    6 Richard Adesanya Nigeria 20/07/2016 Hackney London E9 Unknown BV21808132/1

    7 Jeff Adhekeh Nigeria Unspecified South Kensington London SW7 Unknown BV22107842/1

    8 Isaac Ademola Adio Nigeria 17/08/2012 Harrow Middlesex Bachelor BV21304418/1

    9 Julius Ajidahuan Nigeria Unspecified Ilford Essex Bachelor BV2097929/1

    10 Julius Taiwo Akinyeye Ondo, Nigeria 19/07/1995 Derby Derbyshire Unknown BV960071/1

    11 Charles Ayodele Aliu Nigeria 31/03/2011 Solihull West Midlands Bachelor BV21213206/1

    12 Peter Ifeanyi Arinze Nigeria 23/03/2000 Camberwell London SE5 Bachelor BV2026061/1

    13 Folayele Festus Awosika Nigeria 1/3/2001 Hammersmith London W6 Unknown BV2037690/1

    14 Olajide Ayinde Nigeria 25/04/1997 Hackney London E9 Bachelor BV974293/1

    15 Matthew Balogun Nigeria 31/12/2005 Clapham London SW4 Bachelor BV2084437/1

    16 Henry Banjoko Nigeria Unknown Hampstead London NW3 Bachelor BV2074183/1

    17 John Olaolu Bankole Ibadan, Nigeria 27/04/2010 London EC1V Husband BV21105049/1

    18 Tessi Bello Nigeria 15/10/2003 Camden London NW3 Bachelor BV2051782/1

    19 Peter Benson Nigeria 1/2/2019 Stratford London E15 Unknown BV21918199/1

    20 Paul Benard Lagos, Nigeria Unknown Camden London NW1 Widower BV2087609/1

    21 Eugene Bucknor Nigeria 2/3/2021 Brockley London SE4 Bachelor BV22108784/1

    22 Samuel Emeka Chude Nigeria Unspecified Birmingham Unknown BV21201209/1

    23 Nathaniel Davies Nigeria 7/4/2010 Clapton London E5 Bachelor BV21211255/1

    24 Charles Dixon Nigeria 4/8/2018 Basingstoke Hampshire Unknown BV21817506/1

    25 Enwukwe Graham Kwedi Ede Nigeria 6/1/2011 Lambeth London SE1 Unknown BV21106358/1

    26 Sunny Eyo Edem Calabar, Nigeria 16/09/2011 Ilford Essex Widow BV21114789/1

    27 Victor Adedapo Olufemi Fani-Kayode Lagos, Nigeria 15/08/2001 Birmingham West Midlands Bachelor BV2026069/1

    28 Bose Abosede Elizabeth Fige Bendel, Nigeria 4/5/2008 Paddington London W2 Spinster BV2085258/1

    29 Samuel William MacAuley Godwin Nigeria 25/02/2010 Lambeth London SE1 Bachelor BV21106495/1

    30 Salamatu Harford Nigeria Unspecified South Norwood London SE25 Widow BV2091608/1

    31 Louisa Holmes Nigeria 24/05/2021 Cheam Sutton Spinster BV22201373/1

    32 Tamunokombia Morris Isodiki Nigeria Unspecified Camden London NW1 Single man BV2011682/1

    33 Oyinoluwa Ttijesulase Jesugoodness Nigeria 4/5/2011 Tottenham London N15 Unknown BV21400247/1

    34 Ibidun Johnson Nigeria 14/02/2003 Peckham London SE15 Unknown BV21307554/1

    35 William Kadry Nigeria Unspecified Fulham London SW6 Bachelor BV21200174/1

    36 Victoria Myers Nigeria 7/8/2010 St.Johns Wood London NW8 Widow BV21914328/1

    37 Mark N’Wogo Nigeria Unknown Surrey Mid-Eastern Surrey Unknown BV93623/1

    38 Zacheus Idowu Ogunsanya Nigeria 29/08/2003 Camberwell London SE5 Unknown BV2040843/1

    39 Ifetayo Oguntayo Ogun State, Nigeria 20/11/2016 Upper Edmonton London N18 Single man BV21705991/1

    40 John Emanuel O’Hosi Nigeria 18/02/2007 Leeds West Yorkshire Bachelor BV2071815/1

    41 Stephen Oliyide Nigeria 20/10/2013 Catford London SE6 Bachelor BV21508718/1

    42 Joyce Omoni Nigeria 28/02/2014 Peckham London SE15 Spinster BV21503408/1

    43 Adeoye Kuyoro Onanuga Nigeria 30/08/2008 Kingston upon Thames Surrey Unknown BV21609894/1

    44 Kayode Orishagbemi Yola, Nigeria Unspecified Northampton Northamptonshire Bachelor BV21202011/1

    45 Tex Orrico Lagos, Nigeria 28/09/2009 Marylebone London W1 Bachelor BV20911088/1

    46 Florence Baby Osikpa Nigeria 8/1/2015 Paddington London WC2 Spinster BV21501417/1

    47 Kate Blessing Osolase Nigeria 9/9/2014 Wednesbury West Midlands Unknown BV21906100/1

    48 Francis Ossai Nigeria 21/01/2000 Highgate London N6 Unknown BV2064064/1

    49 Sunday Owolabi Nigeria 26/04/2020 Whitechapel London E1 Bachelor BV22015871/1

    50 Gabriel Nduaguba Ozokoli Nigeria 23/04/1994 Edmonton London N18 Unknown BV22005943/1

    51 Cecilia Ricketts Nigeria 15/10/2010 Hackney London E9 Spinster BV21110413/1

    52 Henry George Babatunde Taylor Lagos, Nigeria Unknown St Pancras London WC1 Unknown BV2077793/1

    53 John Uzoma Nigeria 14/07/2016 Camden London NW3 Unknown BV21815461/1

    54 Akinlolu Olaniran Williams Lagos, Nigeria 26/07/2013 Sheffield South Yorkshire Bachelor BV21315131/1

    55 Akinola Williams Nigeria 16/02/2008 Northampton Northamptonshire Widower BV2081939/1

    56 Nathaniel Babatunde Williams Lagos, Nigeria 22/02/2009 Birmingham West Midlands Bachelor BV2092299/1

    57 Samuel Ademola Williams Nigeria 21/01/2016 Wanstead London E11 Bachelor BV21808988/1

    58 Salihu Ajadi Yusuff Nigeria 4/1/2017 Leeds West Yorkshire Unknown BV21713497/1

    Source: gov.uk

  • UK, Nigeria unveil Creative Industries Group

    UK, Nigeria unveil Creative Industries Group

    The UK and Nigeria have officially launched the Creative Industries Technical Working Group, in a significant move to foster cross-border innovation and collaboration.

    This initiative, announced in a statement by the Senior Press and Public Affairs Officer and Comm Lead, Prosperity and Economic Development, Ndidiamaka Eze, is part of the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP), to strengthen bilateral ties and establish a comprehensive framework for the growth of the creative sectors in both nations.

    The launch, Eze said, accompanied by a matchmaking event for creative industry leaders from both countries, took place in London today, marking a pivotal moment in the UK-Nigeria relationship.

    She explained the newly established Working Group aims to drive innovation, facilitate creative collaborations, and generate sustainable economic growth. Both events highlighted opportunities for commercial alliances in several key creative subsectors, including Film and TV, Music, Fashion & Design, Architecture, Advertising, and Gaming.

    By prioritising collaboration and cultural exchange, according to Eze, the initiative is expected to stimulate long-term growth, enhance job creation, and unlock new pathways for creativity in both countries. A joint work plan for 2025 was also agreed upon to guide the Group’s efforts.

    Read Also: Progressives warn NNPCL against reversing Tinubu’s economic goals on local refineries

    MP, the UK’s Trade Envoy to Nigeria and Co-Chair of the UK-NG Creatives Technical Working Group, Florence Eshalomi highlighted the importance of the initiative.

    She said: “Today marks a significant moment as we launch the UK-Nigeria Creatives Working Group. Our nations share a rich cultural bond and a deep belief in the transformative power of creativity, through music, film, fashion, and arts. This initiative, rooted in our landmark Enhanced Trade & Investment Partnerships (ETIP), will drive stronger trade ties, foster deeper collaboration, and unlock the full potential of our creative industries. By enhancing market access and investing in skills, we are opening doors to new opportunities that will create jobs and boost economic growth in the UK and in Nigeria.”

    Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture and Co-Chair of the UK-NG Creatives Technical Working Group in Nigeria, Obi Asika, stressed the need for further investment in Nigeria’s creative economy.

    He said: “Nigeria’s creative economy is a global force, driven by our storytellers, musicians, designers, and digital innovators. From Nollywood to Afrobeats, fashion to gaming, our industries are reshaping global culture and commerce. However, to unlock the full potential of this sector, we need strategic investment and support not just in talent, but in the institutions and infrastructure that will sustain long-term growth.”

    On the Nigerian side, Special Assistant to the President of Nigeria on Creativity, Prince Baba Agba, underscored the value of leveraging the UK’s expertise in creative industries.

     “The UK’s creative industries stand as a global benchmark for institutional excellence, market distribution, and innovation. We are eager to tap into your expertise for meaningful partnerships. This Working Group isn’t just about discussions – it’s about taking concrete actions that will yield tangible outcomes for creators, businesses, and industry stakeholders on both sides,” he remarked.

    Product Lead at Gbedu Labs, Adedayo Ayoade, spoke about the future of Nigeria’s music industry and the significance of the new initiative, stating: “The future of Nigeria’s music industry lies in live experiences, innovation, and global collaborations. The launch of the Creative Industries Technical Working Group, under the ETIP framework, represents a significant first step towards bridging cultures and amplifying the voices of the next generation.”

    The launch event, which included a series of in-person dialogues between UK and Nigerian officials, as well as creatives, created an institutional framework for meaningful deliberations and actions. With a focus on taking actionable steps towards growth, the UK-Nigeria Creative Industries Technical Working Group is set to play a vital role in reshaping the creative industries of both countries, fostering stronger cultural ties, and contributing to long-term economic development.

  • Five business ideas for Nigerians in the UK

    Five business ideas for Nigerians in the UK

    Navigating the business landscape in the UK as a Nigerian can be challenging but it also presents unique opportunities for those with the right strategy. From tapping into the growing demand for African cuisine to offering specialized consulting services.

    Here are five clever business ideas that Nigerians abroad can explore to thrive in a competitive market:

    1. Start An African foodstuff business 

    The demand for African cuisine is steadily growing in the UK, especially among the Nigerian diaspora and other communities interested in African flavors. Starting an African foodstuff business involves importing and selling staple items like yams, plantains, palm oil, dried fish, and spices. With strategic sourcing, quality products, and effective marketing—especially through social media and community networks—this business can thrive by catering to both the nostalgia of Nigerians abroad and the curiosity of food enthusiasts eager to explore African cuisine.

    2. Create a Nigerian restaurant

    Launching a Nigerian restaurant in the UK offers an excellent opportunity to introduce authentic Nigerian flavors to a diverse audience. With a menu featuring classics like jollof rice, egusi soup, pounded yam, and suya, the restaurant can attract both the Nigerian diaspora and adventurous food lovers. By focusing on authentic recipes, quality ingredients, and a vibrant atmosphere that reflects Nigerian culture, this venture can stand out in a competitive market while celebrating the rich culinary heritage of Nigeria.

    3. Offer research/student support services

    Providing specialised academic assistance can be a highly rewarding business. By leveraging your expertise, you can offer personalized tutoring, research guidance, editing, and mentorship services tailored to Nigerian students and others navigating the UK education system. This venture not only helps bridge academic gaps but also builds a trusted platform for students seeking to excel in their studies.

    Read Also: My worries as UK prepares repatriation of 700 Nigerian prisoners – Rev Ogwuche 

    4. Open a daycare centre

    Establishing a daycare centre can be a fulfilling venture for Nigerians in the UK, tapping into the growing need for quality childcare services. By offering a safe, nurturing environment enriched with both local and Nigerian cultural elements, this business can cater to busy families seeking reliable and culturally aware care for their children.

    5. Start a drop servicing fashion outlet

    This business model lets you capitalize on the dynamic fashion scene without the need for heavy inventory investments. As a middleman, you curate a range of fashion services—such as custom design, tailoring, and styling—by partnering with skilled providers. By focusing on quality control, effective digital marketing, and a seamless customer experience, you can blend Nigerian-inspired aesthetics with modern UK trends to attract a niche clientele looking for unique, personalized fashion solutions.