UK Unveils Africa’s Largest Visa Application Centre in Ikeja
The United Kingdom has inaugurated Africa’s largest Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Ikeja, Lagos, underscoring Nigeria’s strategic importance as a key partner.
The British Deputy High Commission announced the development on Wednesday, revealing that the facility, launched in partnership with VFS Global, offers expanded services for Nigerian travellers. Additional VACs have also been established in Abuja and Victoria Island, Lagos, to enhance accessibility and convenience.
Speaking at the opening, British Deputy High Commissioner Mr. Jonny Baxter expressed optimism about the new partnership. “Nigeria remains one of the UK’s most important partners. We hope that VFS delivers ever-improving services for those applying for visas to the UK,” Baxter said.
The centre, aimed at meeting the growing demand for UK visas, represents a major step in improving the application process. In the 12 months leading to June 2024, over 225,000 UK visa applications were processed for Nigerians across various categories.
Mr. Marc Owen, Director of Visa, Status, and Information Services at UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), described the launch as a landmark achievement. “This new VAC marks an exciting milestone for UKVI and VFS Global in the provision of a world-class UK visa service in Nigeria. This partnership demonstrates our commitment to ensuring visa services are accessible, efficient, and meet the needs of all applicants,” Owen said.
VFS Global’s Head for Sub-Saharan Africa, Mr. Alok Singhal, highlighted the organisation’s longstanding collaboration with UKVI since 2003. “We look forward to bringing best-in-class services to travellers from Nigeria,” Singhal remarked.
The expanded services provided by VFS Global include optional enhancements such as document upload assistance, SMS notifications, prime-time application slots outside regular hours, and courier return of passports after decisions are made. Customers in Abuja can also take advantage of mobile visa services, submitting applications from their preferred locations.
The Deputy High Commission clarified that while these premium services are optional, they do not influence visa processing times or outcomes.
In addition to the Ikeja centre, VFS Global now operates UK VACs across 31 African countries, demonstrating a robust commitment to streamlining visa application services throughout the continent.
The launch is expected to significantly improve the efficiency of visa services in Nigeria, reflecting the UK’s ongoing efforts to strengthen ties with one of its most dynamic global partners. Access Bank Expands Footprint with Major Acquisitions
