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Monday, February 9, 2026

UK govt to end asylum hotels for refugees from Nigeria, others amid immigration reform

In addition, the government also vowed a crackdown on asylum seekers who break laws in the UK.

• February 9, 2026
Refugees in UK
Refugees in UK[Credit: Tribune Online]

The United Kingdom’s Home Office has announced that it is phasing out asylum hotels, the government-backed temporary accommodation initiative for refugees, as part of ongoing immigration reform.

A statement posted on the Home Office’s X page on Monday argued that supposed refugees are deliberately fleeing their peaceful home countries to claim asylum in the UK.

In addition, the government also vowed a crackdown on asylum seekers who break laws in the UK, as it stressed that refugees are exploiting the country’s benevolent policies.

“Right now, migrants are crossing safe countries in Europe because of how generous our asylum system is.

“No more. We’re closing asylum hotels and ensuring that those who break our laws have their support removed,” the Home Office posted.

The announcement is the latest move to restrict immigration into the UK, following the government’s new policy in November last year, requiring migrants from Nigeria and other countries to pass tougher English language tests before being fully integrated into the British system.

“If you come to the UK, you must learn our language and play your part. From January 2026, migrants will be required to pass tough new English language requirements so they can contribute fully to our national life,” the department said in a statement announcing the new policy.

The asylum hotels have also been at the centre of anti-immigration campaigns by locals, with many faulting the government for providing mandatory free accommodation to asylum seekers while thousands of citizens remain homeless across the UK.

Several hotels housing refugees were targeted during widespread protests against mass immigration last year. 

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