02 Jan 2025
Are you moving to London from Nigeria soon? You’d love to learn that more than 270,000 Nigerians already live in the UK, most of whom have mastered the art of life in this new country. These expats can help you significantly while adjusting to the new culture and lifestyle. So whether it’s finding local food, accommodation, transport options, or affordable ways to send money to Nigeria from the UK, befriending other Nigerians there is important. This blog will give you a detailed overview of the Nigerian community in London so you can seamlessly merge into that community.
Nigerians chose the UK as their prime destination decades ago. Let's examine their historical migration patterns to the UK.
Nigerians started considering the UK the ideal location for migration in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Most came as students or professionals under British colonial ties. Nigerians went for education and training, mainly in fields such as law and medicine, which increased the population of Nigeria in the UK. During the mid-20th century, many Nigerians worked in the expanding economy of London. They established early diasporic networks, especially in education and activism.
The 1960s saw a high proportion of Nigerian migration to the UK. Following Nigeria's independence in 1960, many people moved to London for better economic opportunities and stability. Political instability and military coups, especially in the 1980s, also led to migration, which eventually increased the population of Nigerians in the UK. London became an essential destination for Nigerians moving to work, seeking better education, and finding solace from economic problems at home. Since then, each money transfer to Nigeria from the UK has contributed largely to the economic development of Nigeria. London was specifically chosen due to its economic opportunities and diversity. London was the hub of expats, with many businesses creating more jobs for outsiders.
The Nigerian population in the UK was around 178,000 in previous years. Nigerian migration towards the UK is due to the global trend of skilled labor mobility. According to the British government, Nigerians lead the share of qualified healthcare, education, and tech workers. Family reunification and student visas are pretty standard, which further increases the number.
Do you know how many Nigerian students are in the UK? More than 50,000 Nigerian students enrolled in UK universities in 2021, making them among the largest African student contingents.
Here are the essential aspects of demographics and population distribution of Nigerians residing in the UK.
The Nigerian community in London makes up the most significant African diaspora in the entire continent. A common question is how many Nigerians are in the UK. Approximately 215,000 people of Nigerian descent reside in the UK, most of whom live in London. That equates to about 30% of the whole Nigerian diaspora in Europe. This means you have plenty of chances to make friends of the same descent as you.
So, how many Nigerians in UK live in London? More than 142,000 Nigerian Britishers reside in the economic capital of London. Nigerians are predominantly found in Hackney, Peckham, and Southwark boroughs. Peckham is known as "Little Lagos" for its Nigerian businesses, markets, and cultural landmarks. Lewisham, Barking, and Dagenham have other notable Nigerian populations.
The Nigerian community in London has diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Some people run small businesses, especially food and fashion businesses. Other Nigerians in Britain are economically challenged due to housing inequality and underemployment. However, the resilient community contributes significantly to London's economic and cultural life.
The Nigerian community actively gives London a sense of diversity in the following ways.
Nigerian food has become a staple in London's food market. Jollof rice, suya, puff-puff, and other popular dishes are enjoyed by many Nigerians in the UK. Restaurants like Ikoyi and Enish have gained attention due to their authentic flavors. There are street food stalls, popular among Nigerians and others alike, in markets like Peckham and Brixton. The growing interest in Afro-Caribbean food has also increased the visibility and demand of Nigerian food. There are plenty of Nigerian restaurants in London, but the most beloved one is Lolak Afrique Peckham.
Nigerian music dominates London's Afrobeat market. Performers like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Tiwa Savage can sell out venues in London. Occasions such as the Afrobeat Karaoke and the Afronation Festival celebrate Nigerian music, and you can make many Nigerian friends there. Nollywood movies screen at cinemas and are streamed on Netflix as well. All these artistic exports bring Nigerian culture into the global space. There are also plenty of Nigerian nightclubs in London, including Rumba and Shaka Zulu.
You will never miss home again because Nigerian festivals are celebrated enthusiastically and in London. Events like the Yoruba Arts Festival and the Nigerian Independence Day Parade always attract massive turnouts. These celebrations feature customary music, dance, and arts. The Notting Hill Carnival, though Caribbean-rooted, has Nigerian cultural elements. All these festivals help cement a community and promote cultural exchange.
Nigerians in the UK play a significant role in generating economic benefits for the Britishers.
Many businesses are operated by Nigerian entrepreneurs across London. Among these are restaurants, grocery stores, fashion boutiques, and tech startups. Peckham is called "Little Lagos," where Nigerian enterprises thrive. For instance, African MarketPlace and Green Olives Groceries are lifelines for the Nigerian diaspora. You will also find the most African shops in London in these places, which boast substantial economic activity.
If you are also one of these expats living in the UK and require transferring funds back home often or regularly, choose ACE Money Transfer to send money to Nigeria online from the UK. This will help you save enough money as you benefit from low transfer fees while getting competitive exchange rates, thus adding more value to your hard-earned money.
Nigerians excel in diverse professional fields in London. Many work as doctors, lawyers, and academics. Nigerian professionals also hold significant financial, IT, and public services positions. For instance, Nigerian doctors are among the most important African groups in the NHS. Their expertise strengthens the UK's workforce.
Nigerians in the UK largely contribute to the economy of London, as their spending power and entrepreneurship enhance local businesses. Moreover, the tuition and living expenses of Nigerian students amount to millions.
Nigerians have plenty of social support networks that help them thrive in the city life of London.
How many Nigerians in the UK have a strong bond with each other? Nigerians in London have powerful community organizations. Organizations such as the Nigerian Community Association offer many resources for new arrivals.
Moreover, churches and mosques are significant for the Nigerians in London. Several branches of the Redeemed Christian Church of God can be found in the city. These churches provide spiritual comfort, counseling, and activities within the community. Nigerian mosques, such as the Islamic Cultural Centre for Nigerians in the UK, offer the same support. Religious houses host weddings, baptisms, and Eid celebrations. Such events foster bonding and cultural heritage.
Finally, the Nigerian population in the UK engages in online networks in London, using modern ways to reach out to their helping hands. Social media groups like Nigerians in London on Facebook are pretty active. These online forums share job offers, housing ads, and even advice—websites like NigerianLondon.co.uk list local news and events. Digital connections ensure that Nigerians in London stay informed and engaged.
Nigerians in London generally stay in particular areas known for their rich culture. Peckham, a region in South London, is the most popular and even called "Little Lagos." The term "Little Lagos" refers to its strong Nigerian background. There is also the Your Tribe Peckham dormitory, which has plenty of Nigerian students.
Other areas with significant Nigerian populations include Hackney, Lewisham, Southwark, and Barking. Southwark and Lewisham have long been family hubs, with affordable housing and good transport links. A rising Nigerian community is also seen in Barking and Dagenham.
Hackney, on the east side of London, has also started gaining a Nigerian population in the UK. Hackney combines all traditional types of Nigerian outfits with their modern housing units. Nigerian churches, mosques, and community halls exist to help residents as support units.
Affordable housing, community ties, and proximity to Nigerian-focused businesses attract Nigerians to these areas. In addition, these neighborhoods are culturally diverse, which makes them perfect for new arrivals to blend in with while keeping strong ties to their heritage.
Do you wonder how many Nigerians in the UK love to indulge in Nigerian cuisine? Since every Nigerian feels closer to home by indulging in their local cuisine, Nigerian food thrives in London, with restaurants and markets offering authentic flavours. Pechkam is the most crowded place with Nigerian spots like Enish Nigerian Restaurant and 805 Restaurant. These serve dishes such as joll of rice, egusi soup, and suya.
Ikoyi, a Michelin-starred restaurant in St. James, adds a modern twist to Nigerian dishes. It has gained international acclaim for showcasing Nigeria's culinary depth. Street food is another highlight, with vendors in markets like Brixton and Dalston selling puff-puff and akara. These snacks are crowd favorites at cultural festivals and events.
Some stores that will come in handy include African Market Place and Kumasi Market Peckham, and Ades Cash & Carry in Dalston to home cooks for some traditional ingredients, including yam, plantains, palm oil, to make other authentic spices and condiments available to be taken back to re-create familiar dishes.
Jollof Wars, one such event, celebrates Nigeria's food heritage. These competitions raise jollof rice, a favorite of West Africa, to the fore. Such events make people proud of their Nigerian food while introducing them to a newer audience. It can also be called the Nigerian House London since it brings many Nigerian diaspora together.
Living in a different country does bring some challenges for the Nigerian people. Here are some of the challenges the Nigerian community faces in the UK.
Most Nigerians in London are challenged by cultural adaptation. Language, accents, and social etiquette can easily cause miscommunication. For instance, indirect communication in Britain differs from in Nigeria, where people are direct. These factors may make interactions complicated at work or school. Moreover, the city's fast-paced lifestyle is challenging to cope with, especially for newcomers.
Stereotypes about Nigerians still exist in some parts of British society. The community is often exposed to prejudice associated with stereotypical media portrayals. Discrimination can limit access to opportunities in jobs and housing. A 2021 study indicated that ethnic minorities, including Nigerians, are more likely to face workplace bias in the UK. However, Nigerians actively work against stereotypes by performing well in the education, healthcare, and business sectors as they question how many Nigerians in the UK will face racial discrimination and for how long.
Most people in London face financial hardships. Many Nigerians take extra jobs to sustain their life in London, where living expenses are very high. Most Nigerians live in overcrowded or substandard houses due to unaffordable rents. The problem of housing assistance is limited, making this another challenge. Famous Nigerian people and other community networks and organizations help overcome some of these barriers, but systemic changes are needed.
If you are shifting to London soon, then you need to know how many Nigerians in the UK are living close to you so you can build a strong support system for yourself. Take an active part in engaging in activities that the Nigerian community partakes in. Moreover, eating at Nigerian restaurants and residing in Nigerian neighborhoods will allow you to blend into this expat community, where you will feel more at home. If you still miss home, you can always make an online money transfer to Nigeria from the UK through ACE Money Transfer. ACE offers the lowest transfer fees and market-competitive exchange rates, so it isn't a burden on your pocket.
The Yoruba Arts Festival and the Nigerian Independence Day Parade are major events that showcase traditional music, dance, and art.
Some community organizations offer mentorship, career guidance, and academic support for Nigerian students and professionals.
Platforms like "Nigerians in London" on Facebook and forums on NigerianLondon.co.uk share resources, advice, and local events.
Stores like Ades Cash & Carry in Dalston and African Market Place in Peckham provide Nigerian staples like yams, plantains, and palm oil.
While no specific programs exist, general UK housing and job assistance services are accessible to Nigerians in need. Community organizations also provide localized support.
