The United Kingdom has inaugurated its largest visa application center (VAC) in Africa, located in Ikeja, Lagos, to address the increasing demand for UK visas from Nigerian nationals.
The center, managed by VFS Global, was launched on November 27, 2024, and is designed to simplify the visa application process while improving the overall experience for applicants. The facility is part of a broader effort by the UK to enhance its visa services, with additional centers in Abuja and Victoria Island, Lagos.
British Deputy High Commissioner Jonny Baxter, who attended the opening ceremony, highlighted the significance of the UK-Nigeria relationship and expressed optimism about the new center’s potential to deliver improved services.
“I am delighted to witness the opening of this, the largest visa application center in Africa. Nigeria remains one of the UK’s most important partners,” Baxter said.
Marc Owen, Director of Visa, Status, and Information Services at UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), called the development a milestone in providing world-class visa services. Owen noted that over 225,000 UK visa applications were processed from Nigerian nationals in the year ending June 2024, reflecting the high demand for travel to the UK.
Key features of the new center include:
- Document upload assistance
- Extended submission hours
- SMS updates for application status
- Courier passport return services
- Passport retention option after biometric enrolment
- Premium Lounge for personalized services
The UK remains a leading travel destination for Nigerians, who account for 5% of all global UK visit visa applications. The new facility underscores the UK’s commitment to strengthening ties with Nigeria while ensuring visa services are accessible and efficient.