Hundreds Nigerian Migrants Use UK Literary Visa Scheme

Hundreds of Nigerian migrants have been accused of exploiting the UK's Global Talent visa scheme, which is designed for exceptional literary talents such as authors, poets, oral storytellers, and creators of graphic novels and comics, to gain entry into Britain. Nigerians have submitted the highest number of applications in the literature category over the past five years, with 125 applications—more than double the US's 61—and 54 endorsements by Arts Council England, making them the most successful nationality in this category despite a high rejection rate. Since 2019, the number of Nigerian applications has surged by over 2,200%, from 12 to 279 in 2024, and across all artistic categories, Nigerians rank second only to the US in total applications. Successful applicants can bring dependents and stay in the UK for up to five years, raising concerns amid record-high legal and illegal immigration levels that have intensified pressure on the Labour government to address migration challenges. The Home Office has yet to comment on the allegations or specify measures to prevent potential abuses of the visa program. This situation coincides with broader immigration debates as Nigeria produces notable literary figures, but the visa scheme's apparent exploitation has sparked controversy.