Reps Disagree Over UK Ban On Nigerian Students' Dependants

The House of Representatives is divided over the ban on Nigerian Students' dependents by the UK Government. 

The UK Government on Tuesday passed a law barring Nigerian students and others from travelling into the country with dependents in a bid to control the influx of immigrants.

Following the passage of the law, Hon. Taiwo Oluga, a member of the House of Representatives sponsored a motion seeking the UK to stop the ban placed on Nigerian students' dependents.

According to Oluga, Nigeria has a history with the UK which dates back to the colonisation of the former in the 19th century, the country's independence in 1960, and her post-independence relationship.

Oluga claimed that the relationship had been has been beneficial to both parties.

The lawmaker further noted that Nigeria's educational system is patterned after that of the UK, which is why Nigerians seek educational as well as employment opportunities in the UK.

“Aware that recently, the United Kingdom Migration Policy allowed Nigerians admitted to United Kingdom universities to undergo Master’s Degree Programme to relocate/emigrate to allowing the Student Applicant (Primary Applicant) to the Kingdom with their family thereby relocate with his spouse (dependant) and children, whereupon the spouse/dependant is unable to work and earn a living supporting the family and paying tuition of the Nigerian Emigrant Family,” she said.

Oluga also pointed out that the tuition for a Master’s degree programme in the UK was about 13,000 Pounds with an average number of 60,000 Nigerian applicants every year.

However, when put to a voice vote by the Speaker of the House and presiding officer of the plenary session,  Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, most of the lawmakers disagreed with the motion.