UK Envoy: Nigeria Emerging as Major Beneficiary of Brexit

Nigeria has emerged as one of the biggest beneficiaries of Britain’s exit from the European Union, according to the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery.

Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday, Montgomery said Brexit has enabled a recalibration of the UK’s immigration and trade policies, boosting ties with Nigeria in both areas.

He noted that the number of Nigerians living, working, and studying in the United Kingdom has grown significantly since the post-Brexit immigration regime took effect, rising from an estimated 300,000 in 2021 to 550,000 in 2025.

“Nigeria has been one of the biggest beneficiaries of Brexit in terms of our visa regime, which has allowed more Nigerians to come and live, work, and study in the UK,” Montgomery said.

The envoy explained that Brexit gave the UK the freedom to negotiate bilateral trade deals beyond the European Union, strengthening economic partnerships with countries such as Nigeria.

“Brexit has caused a realignment in a lot of our economic relationships. Some may look positive, others negative, but overall, the UK now enjoys more independence to pursue trade deals globally,” he stated.

Montgomery added that Britain’s post-Brexit policies have also attracted significant U.S. investments to the UK, reflecting the economic flexibility gained from leaving the EU.

The High Commissioner expressed optimism that ongoing trade and investment discussions with Nigeria would deliver long-term benefits for both nations, especially in education, technology, and infrastructure.