In a recent interview with the BBC, Emdee Tiamiyu, a prominent Nigerian YouTuber known for his scholarship and “japa-ship” guides, provided insights into the motivations and aspirations of Nigerians seeking to study in the United Kingdom. Tiamiyu discussed the growing trend of Nigerians pursuing education abroad as a means to escape corruption and poor governance in their home country. With a substantial number of Nigerians opting for the UK as their study destination, Tiamiyu shed light on the student route’s popularity and the associated challenges faced by prospective students and their families.
Emdee Tiamiyu, a Nigerian YouTuber with a significant following, has emerged as a guide for Nigerian students aspiring to study abroad. Having experienced the challenges of pursuing an education in the United Kingdom himself, Tiamiyu’s vlogs and videos provide valuable information and advice on scholarships, visa processes, and settling in a foreign country. Tiamiyu moved to the UK several years ago and has since gained a deep understanding of the motivations and concerns of Nigerians seeking education opportunities abroad.
During the interview, Tiamiyu highlighted the primary motivations behind Nigerians’ desire to study in the UK. The prevailing concerns over corruption and poor governance in Nigeria have pushed many individuals to actively seek alternatives for a better future. Tiamiyu emphasized that the student route has become a popular choice, as it offers a legal and accessible pathway for Nigerians to pursue education overseas. He described it as an “answered prayer” for ordinary people, accommodating a significant number of individuals and their families.
Nigerians accounted for a substantial portion of UK student visas issued last year, with approximately 120,000 visas granted. Half of these visas were for the students themselves, while the other half were for their partners and children. This statistic made Nigerians the largest recipients of family visas for foreign students. Tiamiyu’s insights shed light on the scale of Nigerians seeking education in the UK and the resulting impact on family migration.
However, Tiamiyu acknowledged the recent restrictions imposed by the UK government on family visas for certain post-graduate courses, including master’s degrees. He recognized the government’s concerns, noting that some individuals were enrolling in courses primarily to secure visas for themselves and their dependents. Tiamiyu observed that an increasing number of people were using the student route as a means to establish a foothold in the UK rather than focusing on pursuing the actual degrees.
While Tiamiyu acknowledged that most students genuinely intended to study, he highlighted a minority who viewed the course as a stepping stone to a new life in the UK. With the possibility of obtaining a graduate visa or skilled worker visa after completing their studies, individuals saw education as a means to stay in the UK for an extended period, providing economic opportunities for themselves and their families. Tiamiyu stressed that the success of Nigerian students ultimately relies on their skills, experience, and genuine contributions to the job market.
Tiamiyu also discussed the economic viability of students and their families. While foreign students are restricted to working 20 hours per week during term time, Tiamiyu pointed out that spouses accompanying students on a family visa have the opportunity to work full-time, making it more financially feasible for the entire family. He acknowledged that not all marriages are genuine, and some individuals form temporary partnerships before embarking on their journey to the UK. However, Tiamiyu emphasized the importance of genuine contributions to the job market for long-term success.
Tiamiyu expressed concerns that the new restrictions on family visas for certain post-graduate courses may lead some individuals to reconsider the cost of a UK education if they cannot bring their children or spouse. However, he emphasized the necessity of maintaining legal migration routes to address the desperation that many people feel. Tiamiyu shared insights from his interviews with young people in Nigeria, revealing that even when presented with the risks of illegal migration, many expressed a willingness to take the chance.
