ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- Nigerians have reacted with anger and frustration following UK Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch’s proposal to extend the waiting period for British citizenship to 15 years.
Many have described the policy as excessive and unjust.
As part of her first major immigration policy move as Tory leader, Badenoch seeks to increase the minimum residency requirement for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) from five to ten years.
In addition, she also proposes barring individuals who claim benefits, seek social housing, or have criminal records from securing permanent residency.
The announcement has since sparked widespread criticism, particularly among Nigerians, who form a significant portion of the UK’s migrant community.
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Meanwhile, many have taken to social media to express their discontent, arguing that the extended waiting period is unfair to hardworking immigrants striving for stability.
Critics have also accused Badenoch of hypocrisy, claiming she is closing the very doors that once granted her opportunities.
One user, @Ynw_szn, wrote, “Ahh ahh, this law don too much oo. Stay for 15 years before you can apply for citizenship, oga oo.”
Another, @MESIGO422, stated, “They ask her how she got her own citizenship and why she has decided to make it harder for people in the UK. Tomorrow, if people decide to leave, the country will be in a deep economic depression.”
@abbello110 added, “An immigrant who benefited from the system is now kicking against it. Kemi Kemi, se jeje.”
@ayodejiawonowo offered a different perspective, saying, “I actually don’t blame her… She has to pander to the people of Britain, and the fastest way to do that is by taking a hard stance on immigration.”
Another critic, @Deprincefrk001, commented, “She ain’t done yet! A woman who doesn’t want anyone to have the privileges she once had—that woman is Kemi Badenoch.”
Badenoch’s proposal has intensified debates over immigration policies in the UK, with many Nigerians and other migrant communities closely watching the next steps in the policy’s development.