Thousands of Nigerian students studying in the United Kingdom are in panic mode as their student visas near expiration, following a wave of fresh immigration policies introduced by the UK government. In what appears to be a tightening of post-study visa regulations, many are scrambling to secure valid work permits or alternative legal stay options to avoid deportation.
According to an emergency alert issued by the UK government last Sunday, over 10,000 international students, including a significant number of Nigerians, have already been contacted regarding their visa status. The warning emphasized that those whose student visas have expired must leave the country or face removal.
This stern move is reportedly driven by a spike in asylum claims from student visa holders — a development that has prompted the UK to adopt a stricter stance on post-study residency.
The new policy shift has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian student community, with many expressing fear, confusion, and frustration over the uncertainty of their future. Several students who had hoped to transition smoothly from academics into the UK workforce now face the harsh reality of either finding urgent employment sponsorship or returning home.
The UK has been one of the top study destinations for Nigerians in recent years, especially under the popular Graduate Route visa. However, with the latest enforcement, the dream of many to build a future abroad may be cut short.
Stakeholders are now calling for diplomatic engagement between the Nigerian and UK governments to provide fair pathways for affected students to regularize their stay.
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