According to the latest data from the UK Office for National Statistics (ONS), more than 52,000 Nigerians moved to the United Kingdom in 2024, making Nigeria one of the top non-EU+ source countries for migrants. Overall, UK immigration fell sharply, however.
The ONS report, released on Thursday, shows that net migration to the UK decreased by nearly 50 per cent, dropping from 860,000 in 2023 to 431,000 in 2024. Despite the decline, Nigerian migration remained steady, driven primarily by work and study opportunities.
Nigeria Ranks Among Top Non-EU+ Migrant Sources in the UK
According to the ONS, 27,000 Nigerians migrated on work-related visas, 22,000 arrived on student visas, and 3,000 entered under other visa categories, including family reunification and humanitarian grounds.
This places Nigeria alongside India, Pakistan, and China as one of the largest contributors to non-EU+ immigration to the UK in 2024.
“Work and study-related immigration were the primary reasons for migration among Indian, Pakistani, and Nigerian nationals,” the ONS stated.
The majority of Migrants Are Young, of Working Age
The report also highlighted key demographic trends:
- 83% of non-EU+ migrants were aged 16–64
- 52% were male, 48% female
- 16% were children under 16, and only 1% were over 65
This demographic makeup underscores the UK’s continued attractiveness to young, working-age individuals from developing countries, particularly for education and employment.
UK Immigration Sees Sharpest Decline Since Pandemic Era
While Nigerian migration held strong, the UK saw one of its largest declines in total migration figures since the pandemic. The report attributes this to:
- Fewer visa issuances, especially for work and study purposes
- A notable increase in emigration, with many migrants who arrived during the COVID-19 period now returning to their countries of origin
The largest reduction was seen in work visa applications, which dropped by 108,000, representing a 49% year-on-year decrease. Student visa applications fell by 17%, and the number of student dependents saw an 86% decrease, marking the steepest drop in the report.
Policy Changes and Post-COVID Adjustments Drive Migration Trends
Analysts point to UK immigration policy changes and post-pandemic transitions as key factors behind the shifting numbers. Stricter visa rules and the rising cost of living in the UK may be deterring some prospective migrants, even as others, particularly from Nigeria, continue to seek opportunities in education and employment abroad.
