Nigerians in the UK say growing racism and Labour’s new visa restrictions are threatening their safety, livelihoods, and hopes for permanent residency

Nigerians in UK are living in growing fear as racism surges and Britain’s Labour government tightens immigration rules, threatening the lives and dreams of thousands who once viewed the country as a land of opportunity.

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According to the UK Office for National Statistics, about 120,000 Nigerians resided in Britain as of June 2024, making them the second-largest non-European immigrant group after Indians.

Over 52,000 Nigerians migrated in 2024 alone, mainly for work and study. But the once-hopeful “British dream” is fast fading amid hostility and exclusionary policies.

BBC Panorama exposé deepens distrust

Tensions escalated last week after a BBC Panorama investigation exposed racist and misogynistic conduct within the London Metropolitan Police.

Undercover reporter Rory Bibb secretly filmed officers at Charing Cross Police Station making racist jokes, sharing anti-Muslim views, and even suggesting shooting migrants.

The shocking footage prompted an apology from Police Commissioner Mark Rowley, while Prime Minister Keir Starmer called for a “robust response.”

London Mayor Sadiq Khan described the footage as “sickening,” insisting there must be “no hiding place for officers who abuse their position of trust.”

Nigerians speak of fear and discrimination

For many Nigerians, the exposé merely confirmed a bitter reality. UK-based lawyer Dele Olawanle described Britain’s streets as “dangerous,” warning that trust between communities is collapsing.

“The streets are now dangerous. We are afraid to go out at night,” Olawanle said. “If racism enters the courts, justice will no longer be based on law but on the colour of our skin.”

Another Nigerian resident, Victor Emmanuel, said racism is entrenched across police stations. “Black and ethnic minorities experience discrimination daily when they encounter the police,” he said.

Labour’s immigration clampdown sparks anxiety

Adding to the distress, Labour’s Interior Minister, Shabana Mahmood, announced stricter rules for migrants seeking indefinite leave to remain the pathway to permanent residency.

Applicants must now hold steady jobs, make social security contributions, avoid welfare claims, maintain clean records, and engage in community work.

The reforms are seen as Labour’s response to the rise of Nigel Farage’s Reform UK Party, which has capitalised on anti-immigrant sentiment in national polls.

Critics warn that the policy unfairly targets hardworking migrants, particularly Nigerians, many of whom entered the UK through the Skilled Worker visa route.

The salary threshold for most roles was raised to £41,700, excluding numerous essential positions such as IT support, care supervisors, and administrative staff.

‘War of stay’ among Nigerian migrants

Some Nigerians describe the new reality as a “war of stay.”
Margaret, who has lived in the UK for four years, said her Certificate of Sponsorship was suddenly declared invalid.

“Even if they are targeting us immigrants, they should do it appropriately,” she said.

Another migrant, Avoseh Pesu, lamented that companies now avoid hiring foreigners altogether. “People are tired. If it continues this way, I may return home,” he said.

Experts warn the clampdown could trigger reverse migration. Travel consultant Sulaimon Okewole told Saturday PUNCH that thousands of Nigerians could be forced to leave.

“The increase in salary thresholds is a setback. Many may have no choice but to return or seek opportunities elsewhere,” he said.

A fading dream

From police prejudice to visa hurdles, Nigerians in UK now find themselves in a tightening web of fear and uncertainty.

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For many, the promise of equality and opportunity is being replaced by exclusion and anxiety a harsh reminder that the British dream may no longer be theirs to hold.