Despite the UK’s tightened immigration policies and a sharp drop in overall net migration, over 52,000 Nigerians migrated to the United Kingdom in 2024, according to the latest figures released by the UK Office for National Statistics (ONS). This positions Nigeria as one of the top sources of non-EU+ migration to the UK during the year.
According to ONS data, Nigerian nationals made up a significant portion of work and study visa recipients. Of the 52,000 Nigerians who moved to the UK, around 27,000 arrived on skilled work visas, 22,000 on student visas, and the remaining 3,000 under other immigration categories, including family reunification and humanitarian pathways. This underscores Nigeria’s continued status as a major contributor to the UK’s labour and education sectors.
The surge in Nigerian migration came even as overall net migration to the UK fell dramatically. The ONS estimated that net migration dropped to 431,000 in the year ending December 2024, compared to a historic high of 860,000 in 2023. The sharp decline followed several immigration reforms introduced by the UK government aimed at reducing inflows. These included a ban on international students bringing dependents, a higher salary threshold for skilled workers, and stricter rules for family visas.
Despite these measures, Nigerians continued to move in high numbers, reflecting the growing demand for better opportunities abroad amid rising unemployment, inflation, and insecurity at home. Many young professionals, particularly in sectors like healthcare, tech, and education, view the UK as a stable and accessible destination due to language ties, diaspora communities, and reputable institutions.
The ONS report also sheds light on the demographic profile of non-EU+ migrants. It revealed that 83% of arrivals were of working age (16–64 years), with a nearly even split between males and females. Children under 16 accounted for 16% of the group, while just 1% were over 65. Work and education remained the primary drivers of migration, especially for Nigerian, Indian, and Pakistani nationals.
Interestingly, while migration from countries like Nigeria remained high, the overall decline in UK immigration was due to fewer new arrivals and an increase in emigration. A notable number of people who came during the post-COVID boom, particularly international students, have now returned to their home countries. Study visa issuance dropped by 17%, and the number of student dependents fell by a staggering 86%.
Analysts say the trend presents a double-edged sword. While the UK is aiming to control immigration, it still relies heavily on foreign talent in sectors like healthcare and construction, areas where Nigerian workers often thrive. For Nigeria, however, the continued outflow of skilled professionals raises long-standing concerns about brain drain and the sustainability of local institutions.
