The British High Commission in Nigeria has promised to work closely with the federal government once the full details of the UK’s latest immigration reforms are made public. This follows the UK government’s release of a White Paper on Monday, unveiling major changes to its immigration policies.

Some of the proposed reforms include scrapping the social care visa route, extending the path to settlement, reducing the duration of graduate visas, and introducing compulsory English tests for dependents of migrants. Though a specific date for the implementation hasn’t been announced, the British High Commission assured Nigerians that the long-standing relationship between both countries remains strong.

“The UK and Nigeria share deep and historic ties,” the Commission said in a statement. “We value the fact that many Nigerians continue to choose the UK as a place to work, study, visit, and build their lives.” It further explained that the reforms are part of efforts to bring balance, structure, and fairness to the UK’s immigration system, while also aiming to reduce net migration and support economic development.

The Commission also emphasized that these changes would not happen overnight, and stressed that the UK remains open to cooperation with Nigerian authorities as the process unfolds. This comes despite growing concern that countries with high rates of visa overstaying—Nigeria reportedly among them—could face tighter restrictions.

Despite those fears, the British High Commission maintained that the UK values its relationship with Nigeria and remains committed to being an inclusive, outward-facing country that appreciates the value of international talent and diversity.