Nigerians have been advised to reconsider plans to relocate to the United Kingdom as the country moves towards stricter immigration and settlement policies under the Conservative Party’s proposed reforms.

UK-based financial adviser and public affairs analyst, Dipo Awojide, issued the caution in a recent post on X, warning prospective migrants against selling off their assets or resigning from stable jobs without proper research.

He said the United Kingdom’s political climate and policy direction no longer guarantee the same ease of study-to-residency transition that 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,” he wrote.

The warning follows new proposals by Conservative Party leader, Kemi Badenoch, who unveiled her “Radical Borders Plan” during the party’s conference in Manchester.

The plan outlines sweeping immigration changes, including the creation of a special “Removals Force” modelled after the United States’ Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Under the proposal, 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 those who have claimed social housing or government benefits.

The Labour government, which also pledged to reduce net migration, has hinted at further reforms to student, work, and family visa routes.

These may include higher financial requirements, longer qualifying periods, and more stringent sponsor regulations.

Nigeria’s diaspora population in the UK—one of the largest African communities in Britain—has reacted with concern. Many professionals and students fear the proposed policies could delay or derail their settlement plans.

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) urged citizens to conduct due diligence before migrating, warning that visa overstays or irregular work arrangements could lead to deportation or legal penalties.

Critics of Badenoch’s proposal say it could worsen labour shortages in sectors heavily reliant on migrant workers, such as healthcare, education, and hospitality. Supporters, however, argue that the new measures would strengthen border control and restore public confidence in the immigration system.

Awojide clarified that his warning was not meant to discourage legitimate migration but to encourage better planning. “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 said.

With the UK’s immigration framework tightening and political uncertainty deepening, many Nigerians are reportedly exploring alternative destinations such as Canada, Australia, and select African countries where migration pathways are considered more stable and predictable. (The Guardian)