The United Kingdom has expressed serious concern about Nigeria’s deteriorating security situation, describing it as “worrisome.” British High Commissioner to Nigeria Richard Montgomery, speaking at his Abuja residence, attributed the instability partly to spillover effects from conflicts in neighboring countries such as Sudan and Niger. The UK government is collaborating closely with Nigeria’s Office of the National Security Adviser and investing in security infrastructure to help address these challenges.
Montgomery also highlighted a recent increase in visa fraud incidents linked to a surge in visa rejections. He urged prospective Nigerian visa applicants to ensure they submit accurate and complete documentation to improve their chances of approval and avoid falling victim to scams.
Despite security concerns, the UK reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening economic and trade ties with Nigeria through the Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP). This partnership focuses on boosting cooperation in sectors including education, agriculture, financial services, clean energy, digital technology, and the creative industry. Trade between the two countries currently stands at £7.2 billion.
The High Commissioner welcomed the latest World Bank report projecting Nigeria’s path toward economic recovery, reinforcing the country’s potential as a strong investment destination for the UK. He also noted a decline in the UK’s hydrocarbon exports to Nigeria, attributing it to increased local production-a development viewed positively.
To support Nigerian exports, the UK has granted tariff-free access for 3,000 products, including cocoa, cashew nuts, prawns, and flowers.
Addressing the rising migration of skilled Nigerian health workers to the UK, Montgomery acknowledged that over 1.6 million people migrated to the UK in the past two years, with Nigerians accounting for over 10 percent of recent visa approvals. He emphasized that such high migration levels are unsustainable in the long term and that the UK government is working to manage immigration accordingly.
The UK continues to collaborate with Nigerian authorities to combat visa fraud and protect applicants from exploitation, with joint initiatives aimed at disrupting criminal networks and raising public awareness about scams targeting Nigerian travelers.
