The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, has reassured the Nigerian diaspora in the UK of their safety following recent disturbances in various cities across the country.
Montgomery gave the assurance during a meeting with the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, on Wednesday.
Montgomery addressed concerns about the unrest affecting 12 towns in the UK, revealing that the UK government is implementing measures to restore order. These measures include the establishment of a special task force of 60 courts with police and legal operatives to tackle criminal activities linked to the unrest.
The British High Commissioner emphasized the UK’s commitment to being an inclusive and tolerant society, reaffirming that the country would not accept discrimination or attacks against any community. He also stated that the government is taking steps to address online incitement and misinformation.
Meanwhile, Montgomery revealed that around 430,000 Nigerian visa applications were successful this year, advising applicants to apply directly and be cautious of using agents. Dabiri-Erewa commended the UK government for its swift response and noted that, to date, no Nigerians had been reported harmed or affected by the disturbances.
The meeting also included British Deputy High Commissioner, Gill Lever; First Secretary Political Natalie Palmer, and staff members from NiDCOM. Countries, including Nigeria, Indonesia, Malaysia, Australia, and Canada, have warned their citizens against traveling to the UK following violent riots across the country.
