Nigeria Emerges as Second-Highest Source of Long-Term Migrants to the UK in 2024

Nigeria has officially ranked as the second-highest source of long-term migrants to the United Kingdom in 2024, according to the latest figures released by the UK’s Office for National Statistics (ONS). The data reveals that 120,000 Nigerians relocated to the UK within the year ending June 2024, placing Nigeria just behind India, which recorded 240,000 immigrants.

The ONS report, which focuses on non-EU+ nationals—those outside the European Union and other key European countries—highlights the demographic characteristics, reasons for migration, and nationalities of those moving to the UK. Nigerians, alongside other top-ranking nationalities, were part of a significant movement of people who primarily migrated for work and education

Key Findings from the ONS Report:

– Top Five Non-EU+ Countries of Origin in 2024:

– India – 240,000

– Nigeria – 120,000

– Pakistan – 101,000

– China – 78,000

– Zimbabwe – 36,000

– Demographics of Nigerian Migrants:

– 52% male, 48% female

– 82% of migrants were of working age (16–64 years)

– 17% were children under 16 years

– 1% were aged 65 or older

Reasons for Migration Among Non-EU+ Nationals:

– Work-related migration: 417,000 individuals

– Study-related migration: 375,000 individuals

– Other reasons: Asylum (84,000), Family reunification (76,000), Humanitarian routes and resettlement (67,000)

The report underscores the UK’s continued demand for foreign labor and its appeal as a global education hub. The migration patterns reflect Nigeria’s deepening connection with the UK, driven by economic opportunities and academic aspirations.