A Nigerian YouTuber named Emdee Tiamiyu has gained significant attention online following the viral spread of a video featuring an interview he conducted with the BBC. This development coincides with the recent announcement made by the UK government on Tuesday, May 23, which stated that individuals from Nigeria and other countries would no longer be permitted to bring their family members or dependents while pursuing a Master's degree program in the UK.
Starting from January 2024, the new regulation also entails the removal of international students' ability to switch from the student route to work routes before completing their studies, aiming to prevent potential misuse of the visa system.
Emdee Tiamiyu, during his conversation with the BBC, expressed his support for the ban while asserting that many Nigerians who migrate to the UK utilize education as a means to gain entry into the country.
In his words:
“So the student thing is not real. It is not like they need the degrees.
“They need the degree as an access road to come into the country, so a lot of these people, their priorities shifted real fast.”
Dear @BBCNews,
Nigerians have been made aware of a video showing your interview with one “Emdee Tiamiyu” who claimed that Nigerians do not go to the UK because they need the degree. For the avoidance of doubt, your interviewee has spoken strictly for himself & not for Nigerians. pic.twitter.com/thVIgkXI6Q
— Francis Ebuara (@ushiebuaras) May 23, 2023