Follow Us on Google
By Bolaji Okunola
In a significant move to support Nigerian students seeking higher education in the United Kingdom, a UK university representative, AHZ, has officially opened a new six-storey office in Opebi, Lagos. The commissioning ceremony was marked by cultural displays and a vibrant dinner reception, attracting guests from various walks of life.
AHZ, known for its commitment to helping international students navigate the UK education system, launched this facility as part of its ongoing expansion across Nigeria and Africa. The Lagos office is strategically designed to offer a wide range of services, including free counselling, student admission support, visa compliance assistance, accommodation arrangements and liaison services with partner universities.
Speaking at the event, Zahirul Islam, the Chief Commercial Officer of AHZ UK, emphasised the importance of understanding the UK’s evolving immigration policies. According to Islam, many Nigerian students face difficulties during the visa application process, particularly those intending to migrate with their families through the study route.
Islam clarified that under the UK’s new policy, students pursuing undergraduate or master’s degree programmes are expected to travel alone. The policy, he explained, aims to help students maintain focus and reduce distractions. Only those enrolled in research-based programmes or PhDs are allowed to bring dependents along, as these programmes typically demand a greater level of support and commitment.
“Many students get it wrong because they don’t ask the right questions or seek proper guidance,” Islam noted. “At AHZ, we aim to bridge that gap by offering free, accurate, and timely support. We represent UK universities, and our mission is to ensure that students are well-informed and comfortable throughout their journey.”
The AHZ representative further assured that the organisation does not charge students for these services. “We are here to serve both the institutions and the students. Our focus is the well-being and academic success of every applicant,” he added.
Also, speaking at the event, Dr. Olukayode Shiroye, the Country Director for AHZ Nigeria, stressed the long-term benefits of international education for the Nigerian academic landscape. He dismissed the notion that studying abroad harms the local education system. Instead, he encouraged students to see the opportunity as a means of acquiring global exposure and skills that could be reinvested in the country.
“I don’t see this trend having a negative impact on Nigeria’s educational sector,” Shiroye said. “In fact, when students return, they bring with them new knowledge, experiences, and perspectives that can help reform and elevate our system.”
He also noted that AHZ’s commitment goes beyond admissions. “We organise seminars, education fairs and workshops to keep students updated about developments in the UK education sector. Our support continues even after the students have completed their course,” he added.
With this new office, AHZ reinforces its promise to make UK education more accessible to Nigerians, while ensuring students are well-prepared and aligned with current immigration expectations.
