THE United Kingdom (UK) on Wednesday unveiled its largest Visa Application Centre in Africa, located in Ikeja, Lagos State. Operated by VFS Global, the new centre marks a significant step in enhancing visa application services for Nigerians travelling to the UK.
According to media reports, this was contained in a statement by the British High Commission in Lagos. With additional centres in Abuja and Victoria Island, Lagos, now operational since November 19, the facility in Ikeja is designed to streamline visa submissions and offer applicants a seamless experience.
The British Deputy High Commissioner, Jonny Baxter, attended the launch in Ikeja, emphasising the importance of the UK-Nigeria relationship. He expressed optimism that the new centre would provide improved services for applicants.
In his words: “I am delighted to witness the opening of this, the largest visa application centre in Africa. Nigeria remains one of the UK’s most important partners, and we hope that VFS deliver ever-improving services for those applying for visas to the UK.”
Also, the Director of Visa, Status and Information Services at UK Visas and Immigration, Marc Owen, described the development as a milestone in offering world-class visa services.
Owen said over 225,000 UK visa applications from Nigerian nationals were processed in the year to June 2024, reflecting the growing demand for travel to the UK.
Note that the UK remains a top destination for Nigerian travellers, who account for five per cent of all global visit visa applications.
