Henley and Partners, a global leader in residence and citizenship by investment, has reported a staggering 1000% increase in demand for their services in Nigeria over the past three years. This was disclosed during the 2024 Investment Migration West Africa Roadshow, held recently in Abuja, where many Nigerians were introduced to programs that promise greater global mobility, enhanced living standards, and improved business prospects abroad.
Speaking at the event, Stuart Wakeling, Managing Partner for the UK at Henley and Partners, emphasized that more Nigerians are seeking “Plan B” alternatives in light of global uncertainties. “Our services aren’t just about helping people move abroad,” Wakeling said. “It’s about providing security, better opportunities for families, and access to top-tier education and healthcare.”
Wakeling noted that the increase in demand for alternative or additional residence and citizenship reflects Nigerians’ desire to diversify their options and secure a stable future. “We’ve seen a massive surge in interest from Nigerians eager to live, work, and travel freely across the world, unencumbered by visa restrictions and limited opportunities,” he explained.
He emphasized that the goal is not merely to leave Nigeria but to broaden one’s horizons. “Having an alternative citizenship or residency means increased mobility, business opportunities, and access to world-class healthcare and education systems,” Wakeling added.
At the roadshow, various popular investment migration programs were highlighted, including the Portugal Golden Residence Permit, Greece Golden Visa Program, and Spain Residence by Investment Program. These initiatives allow individuals to obtain residency or citizenship by making significant investments in real estate or businesses. For many Nigerians, these programs are pathways to a better quality of life and a more secure future for their families.
Wakeling also stressed the growing need for a “Plan B” as uncertainties continue to affect Nigerians. “We can’t choose where we are born—it’s a passport lottery,” he said, explaining that while some people are blessed by their place of birth, for others, their nationality can limit their opportunities or even put them in danger.
Henley and Partners offers Nigerians the chance to maintain their Nigerian identity while gaining the advantages of an additional residence or citizenship. “People want options without having to give up being Nigerian,” Wakeling noted. “This is where we come in, helping individuals gain an alternative status in the world’s leading jurisdictions.”
Henley and Partners has cemented its position as a global leader in the investment migration industry, with over 50 offices worldwide and more than 400 staff. The firm offers access to over 45 residence and citizenship programs, the largest selection available globally. Wakeling remarked, “We are growing because, in today’s fractured world, having a ‘Plan B’ and greater global mobility through an alternative citizenship or residency is increasingly essential.”
The investment migration industry is also evolving, with rising costs and changing entry requirements in Europe and the Caribbean. Wakeling highlighted some of these shifts: “This year, costs increased significantly in the Caribbean, Portugal eliminated its real estate entry point, and countries like Ireland and Montenegro have closed their programs.”
Given the shifting landscape, Wakeling urged Nigerians interested in these programs to stay informed and act quickly. “The demand for these programs is only increasing, and Nigerians should seize the opportunities while they’re available,” he advised.
Another key speaker at the event, Carlo Paguio, Director of Sales and Strategy Partnerships at Hotel 101, underscored the importance of selecting the right investment vehicle when pursuing residency or citizenship through investment. He said that Hotel 101’s real estate projects provide a reliable investment opportunity for Nigerians looking to gain residency.
For many Nigerians, investment migration might seem like an unattainable dream, but the roadshow demonstrated that it is becoming more accessible than ever before. These programs not only provide paths to residency or citizenship but also offer the chance to invest in burgeoning economies and secure a stable future.
The advantages of these programs are manifold: access to world-class healthcare and education, improved living standards, and the ability to travel visa-free to numerous countries. Most importantly, these programs provide Nigerians with a way to ensure a safe, stable, and prosperous future for their families.
Henley and Partners is dedicated to offering flexible solutions tailored to meet the needs of its clients. Whether through the Portuguese Golden Visa or Caribbean citizenship programs, Nigerians now have multiple options to secure their future. As interest in investment migration continues to rise, Henley and Partners is leading the way, helping Nigerians take advantage of these opportunities to enhance their global mobility and financial security.
For Nigerians eager to explore their options and secure a better future, Wakeling assured, “If you are interested in what we do, rest assured—you are in good company.”
