Nigerians have been advised to exercise caution and reconsider plans to relocate to the United Kingdom as the country moves toward tougher immigration and settlement policies under proposed Conservative Party reforms.
UK-based financial adviser and public affairs analyst, Dr. Dipo Awojide, issued the warning in a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), urging prospective migrants not to sell their assets or resign from stable jobs without conducting proper research.
According to him, the UK’s evolving political climate and policy direction no longer guarantee the easy study-to-residency pathway many Nigerians previously enjoyed.
“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,” Awojide cautioned.
His advice follows the unveiling of a Radical Borders Plan by Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch during the party’s conference in Manchester.
The proposal outlines sweeping immigration changes, including the establishment of a special Removals Force modelled after the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Under the plan, about 150,000 illegal migrants would be deported annually.
Other key provisions include doubling the minimum qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) from five to ten years, tightening English language requirements, and restricting access to permanent residency for individuals who have benefited from public housing or government support.
Meanwhile, the Labour government, which has also pledged to reduce net migration, has hinted at further reforms to student, work, and family visa routes. These may involve higher financial thresholds, longer qualifying periods, and stricter sponsorship conditions. Reports suggest that visa overstays or irregular work could now attract deportation or legal sanctions.
Critics of Badenoch’s proposal argue that such measures could deepen labour shortages in critical sectors like healthcare, education, and hospitality. Supporters, however, maintain that the reforms will strengthen border control and restore public confidence in the immigration system.
Awojide stressed that his caution was not meant to discourage legitimate migration but to promote better planning and informed decisions.
“If you are already in the UK, stay calm but remain alert. Those still in Nigeria should make informed choices before taking irreversible steps,” he advised.
With the UK tightening its immigration framework amid political uncertainty, many Nigerians are reportedly exploring alternative destinations such as Canada, Australia, and select African countries with more predictable migration pathways.
