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Introduction
Migration from Nigeria to the United Kingdom has been a significant phenomenon in recent decades, with myriad factors contributing to this trend (Adepoju, 2004). Understanding the effects of migration on Nigerian children who have migrated with their parents to the UK is crucial, as these children represent an essential component of both Nigeria’s and the UK’s future growth and development (Graham et al., 2018). This literature review aims to examine a substantial portion of the existing literature related to the effects of migration on Nigerian children, specifically focusing on the social, economic, and psychological impacts.

A considerable body of research has been conducted on international migration from Nigeria and other sub-Saharan African countries to the UK, focusing on factors influencing migration, the experiences of migrants, and the impacts of migration on both sending and receiving countries (Bakewell, 2008; Rutter et al., 2008). Although a growing number of studies have explored the experiences of African migrant children in Western countries, relatively few have focused explicitly on Nigerian children and their families in the UK (Mazzucato, 2018). Consequently, this literature review seeks to fill this gap by synthesizing the available evidence on the effects of migration on Nigerian children who have migrated with their parents to the UK, and the challenges they face in adapting to their new environment (Rutter et al., 2008).

By examining the existing literature, this review will provide insights into the experiences of Nigerian migrant children, including the economic, social, and psychological effects of migration. Furthermore, it will explore the role of gender in shaping the challenges faced by Nigerian migrant children in the UK. Lastly, it will discuss strategies for overcoming these challenges and harnessing opportunities to support the successful integration and well-being of these children. This review will ultimately contribute to the ongoing development of research and policy dialogue concerning the experiences of Nigerian migrant children in the UK and their families.

Through a comprehensive review of the literature, the subsequent sections will delve into the various dimensions of these children’s experiences, focusing on the social, economic, and psychological impacts. Ultimately, this literature review will shed light on the challenges these children face and highlight opportunities for policy and practice to support their well-being and integration into UK society.

Migration Trends and Context
Migration trends from Nigeria to the UK have evolved over time, with a wide range of factors contributing to the increasing levels of migration from Nigeria in the past few decades (Adepoju, 2004). Historically, migration from Nigeria to the UK began during the British colonial era, with many Nigerians traveling to the UK for higher education, professional training, or economic opportunities (Okolo & Akhigbe, 2018). However, the nature of migration from Nigeria to the UK has shifted in more recent times, with a growing emphasis on family reunification, skilled labor migration, and an increased number of Nigerian students seeking educational opportunities in the UK (Bakewell, 2008; Oyelere & Asongu, 2019).

Recent statistics reveal an increasing trend, as the number of Nigerian-born individuals living in the UK has nearly doubled between 2001 and 2021, reaching over 250,000 people according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS, 2022). This increase underscores the continued significance of Nigeria as an important source country of migrants to the UK (Adepoju, 2004). The growing presence of Nigerian migrants in the UK highlights the need to better understand the experiences of Nigerian children who migrate with their parents, as their integration and well-being are critical for both Nigeria’s and the UK’s future growth and development (Graham et al., 2018).

Factors influencing migration from Nigeria to the UK
Migration from Nigeria to the UK can be understood through the lens of ‘push’ and ‘pull’ factors, which influence people’s decisions to leave their home country in search of opportunities abroad (Massey et al., 1993).

Push Factors: Economic factors have consistently been identified as significant drivers of migration from Nigeria to the UK (Adepoju, 2004). High unemployment rates, particularly among young people, and widespread poverty are key economic push factors in Nigeria (Bakewell, 2008). The lack of formal sector job opportunities, coupled with low wages and inadequate social protection, has compelled many Nigerians to seek employment abroad, hoping to improve their standard of living (ILO, 2018). For instance, the oil-rich Niger Delta region, in spite of its wealth, experiences high levels of poverty due to pollution, land degradation, and corruption, which have led to increased out-migration from the area (Al Jazeera, 2015; Ohia, 2013). Educational factors are another crucial push factor influencing migration from Nigeria to the UK (Onume, 2018). Nigeria’s education system, particularly at the tertiary level, suffers from inadequate funding, infrastructure constraints, frequent strikes, and declining quality (Adesina, 2018). Consequently, many Nigerian students choose to pursue higher education abroad, particularly in well-established UK institutions, with the hope of gaining an internationally recognized qualification that will enhance their job prospects upon return (Oyelere & Asongu, 2019). Security issues have also contributed to the migration of Nigerians to the UK. The ongoing conflict between Boko Haram insurgents and the Nigerian military in the northeastern part of Nigeria has led to internal and external displacement of millions of people (IDMC, 2018). Furthermore, kidnappings, ethno-religious violence, and political instability have driven many Nigerians to migrate in search of safety and security, with the UK often perceived as a relatively stable destination (Okoli, 2017).

Pull Factors: In addition to the push factors mentioned above, several pull factors make the UK an attractive destination for Nigerian migrants. The historical and colonial ties between Nigeria and the UK, as well as their shared language, have facilitated easier integration of Nigerian migrants into the British society (Adepoju, 2004). Furthermore, the existence of well-established Nigerian diaspora communities in the UK has played a crucial role in promoting migration through social networks, as friends and relatives already in the UK provide the necessary support for new migrants (Nwoye, 2014). The UK’s labor market also plays a significant role in attracting Nigerian migrants. The country offers diverse job opportunities across various sectors, particularly for skilled professionals and students seeking part-time employment to support their studies (Balčaitė, 2016). Additionally, the UK’s strong and stable economy compared to Nigeria further enhances its attractiveness as a migration destination (ONS, 2020). Family reunification is another leading pull factor for Nigerian migration to the UK. Many Nigerians migrate to join their spouses, children, or other relatives who are already residents of the UK, which further strengthens diasporic ties and encourages more migration (Nwoye, 2014).

Nigerian migrants in the UK
Nigerian migrants in the UK include skilled professionals, students, and asylum seekers (Okolo & Akhigbe, 2018). Many Nigerian migrants work in UK healthcare, education, and finance (Iglicka & Weinar, 2008). In 2021, the ONS reported over 250,000 Nigerian-born UK residents (ONS, 2022). 40% and 25% were born in the 1990s and 2000s, respectively (ONS, 2022). This suggests that many Nigerian migrants in the UK are children or youth. Healthcare, education, and finance employ many Nigerian migrants in the UK. Nigerian-born Brits have a lower unemployment rate than the national average, according to ONS (2022). Nigerian migrants are more self-employed than the general population. The UK's Nigerian migrant population is heterogeneous, with migration experiences and trajectories varying by educational background, language proficiency, and employment status (Dummett, 2020).

Nigerian migrants in the UK struggle with cultural differences, discrimination, and social services (Rutter et al., 2008). Nigerian migrants may struggle to adapt to British culture, causing tensions in work-life balance, gender roles, and parenting (Ogunsola, 2017). Discrimination and racism can cause social isolation, mental health issues, and limited social and economic integration (Dummett, 2020; Mazzucato, 2018).

Understanding the experiences of Nigerian children who migrate with their parents to the UK is important because they may face unique adaptation challenges.


Impacts of Migration on Children
Economic impacts
The pursuit of improved economic opportunities for both migrants and their families, including their children, is a key driving force behind the decision to migrate from Nigeria to the UK (Adepoju, 2004). According to Mazzucato (2018), the migration of Nigerian parents to the UK can have a favourable impact on the financial resources accessible within their families. This can result in an augmented ability to fulfil essential requirements and allocate funds towards their children's education, health, and general welfare. According to Osili's (2007) research, remittances transmitted by Nigerian migrants to their families in Nigeria have demonstrated a noteworthy contribution towards augmenting household expenditure on education, thereby underscoring a favourable economic implication of migration. It is noteworthy that the economic circumstances of migrant households in the United Kingdom can exhibit significant disparities contingent on variables such as job status, financial assimilation, and the standard of living (ILO, 2018).

The economic implications of migration encompass a crucial facet that pertains to the provision of superior education and healthcare services for Nigerian minors who relocate alongside their guardians. The United Kingdom is renowned for its education system of exceptional quality. Nigerian migrant children may potentially experience advantages in terms of educational resources and opportunities that surpass those available to them in Nigeria, as per Onume's (2018) findings. In addition, the healthcare system in the United Kingdom, which is available to all citizens regardless of their socioeconomic status, provides Nigerian migrants and their offspring with the opportunity to utilise crucial healthcare services. This, in turn, has the potential to enhance their overall health outcomes (McLaren & Woods, 2018).

The economic effects of migration encompass a crucial aspect that pertains to the employment prospects available to parents and the resulting implications for migrant children from Nigeria. According to Balčaitė (2016), Nigerian parents who attain stable and lucrative employment in the United Kingdom have the potential to augment the financial stability and prospects of their offspring, thereby improving their overall welfare and future prospects. The economic situation of migrant families can be adversely affected by challenges such as underemployment or unemployment, particularly among skilled Nigerian migrants, which can limit the resources available to support their children's needs, as per the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) report in 2015.

Social impacts
Apart from the economic implications, the migration of Nigerian children with their parents to the UK also entails various social impacts, such as identity formation and belonging, experiences with discrimination and racism, and access to social support networks and community resources. This section of the literature review will discuss these aspects of the social impacts of migration on Nigerian children.

Identity formation and belonging are essential aspects of children’s social development, which can be uniquely affected by the migration process. For Nigerian children migrating to the UK, the formation of their identity may be shaped by the complex interplay between their Nigerian cultural heritage and the British context in which they find themselves (Rutter et al., 2008). Some studies suggest that migrant children may face challenges in negotiating their dual cultural identities, as they strive to balance their Nigerian roots with the need to adapt and integrate into British society (Ogunsola, 2017). It is vital to recognize that the experiences of Nigerian children in forming their identities and sense of belonging will significantly influence their overall well-being and integration into the UK.

Experiences with discrimination and racism can also have considerable social impacts on the lives of Nigerian children who migrate to the UK. Research suggests that children of African origin in the UK, including Nigerians, may be susceptible to racial discrimination in various contexts, including school, housing, and employment (Dummett, 2020). The emotional toll of such experiences can lead to feelings of social exclusion, low self-esteem, and even mental health problems, hampering the integration and well-being of Nigerian children (Rutter et al., 2008).

Access to social support networks and community resources is a crucial aspect of the social impacts of migration on Nigerian children and their families. The existence of well-established Nigerian diaspora communities in the UK can facilitate access to social networks and resources that provide support to newly arrived families, helping them navigate the challenges of adapting to a new environment (Nwoye, 2014). However, it is essential to recognize that access to these resources may also depend on factors such as location, language proficiency, and socio-economic status, meaning that not all Nigerian migrants may have equal access to support (Dummett, 2020).

Psychological impacts
The process of migration can have notable psychological effects on children, which may arise from the difficulties associated with adjusting to a new setting, managing cultural disparities, and dealing with the possibility of encountering prejudice and bias (Graham et al., 2018). The migration process can have an impact on an individual's mental health, which is a fundamental component of their holistic state of being. According to Fazel et al. (2012), empirical evidence indicates that migrant children, including those originating from Nigeria, are susceptible to elevated levels of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This is especially true if they have undergone traumatic pre-migration events such as violence, forced displacement, or bereavement. Research conducted in the United Kingdom has indicated that children belonging to Black African ethnic groups, such as Nigerians, may encounter elevated levels of mental health challenges in comparison to their White peers. This underscores the significance of prioritising the promotion of mental health and overall well-being among migrant children from Nigeria. (Office for National Statistics, 2020).

The psychological effects of migration on Nigerian children encompass a significant aspect of emotional difficulties related to adjusting to a novel environment. The process of adapting to a new environment can encompass a range of stress-inducing factors, including linguistic obstacles, disparities in cultural norms, and instances of prejudice and bias, all of which can elicit emotions of seclusion, diminished self-worth, and challenges in establishing social connections with peers (Graham et al., 2018). Comprehending and tackling these affective obstacles is imperative for devising efficacious interventions aimed at fostering the psychological welfare and assimilation of Nigerian minors in the United Kingdom.

The psychological effects of migration on Nigerian children are significantly influenced by family dynamics and the level of parental support. According to Leavy and Smith (2010), the provision of emotional, practical, and financial support by parents can serve as a protective factor against the potential adverse effects of migration experiences on children's psychological well-being. Additionally, the coping mechanisms, mental health, and degree of acculturation of parents can also play a role in shaping children's psychological adjustment. According to Graham et al. (2018), empirical evidence suggests that robust social and emotional backing from parents is linked to improved mental health consequences in migrant children. Therefore, it is imperative to examine the significance of the family unit in comprehending and tackling the psychological ramifications of migration on Nigerian minors.

Gender and Migration
The role of gender is of paramount importance in shaping the experiences of Nigerian migrant children in the United Kingdom, as it exerts a profound influence on the challenges and opportunities that they encounter in their new milieu. According to Rutter et al. (2008), empirical evidence suggests that the effects of migration on children can vary depending on their gender, given that male and female children may encounter unique obstacles when attempting to adjust to their novel environment. According to Mazzucato's (2018) research, it has been suggested that male Nigerian students residing in the United Kingdom may encounter greater academic difficulties in comparison to their female counterparts. The influence of cultural norms and societal expectations may prompt male individuals to prioritise income-generating endeavours over academic pursuits, which may lead to suboptimal academic achievements (Rutter et al., 2008).

Additionally, it has been suggested that Nigerian females may face a higher susceptibility to instances of prejudice and sexual misconduct within the United Kingdom in contrast to their male counterparts (Mazzucato, 2018). According to Graham et al. (2018), such experiences can potentially result in negative impacts on individuals' mental health, self-esteem, and general state of well-being. According to Ogunsola's (2017) research, it has been found that gender-specific expectations and roles may be perpetuated within Nigerian migrant families, potentially affecting the experiences and coping strategies of their children in their new environment.

Comprehending the gender-specific obstacles encountered by Nigerian migrant minors in the United Kingdom is imperative in devising suitable approaches to tackle these concerns and facilitate their efficacious assimilation and welfare. An approach that has been suggested involves promoting cultural sensitivity and awareness in educational institutions and other organisations. This can aid educators and service providers in gaining a better understanding of the distinct obstacles encountered by Nigerian boys and girls in their new surroundings (Rutter et al., 2008). Moreover, the implementation of programmes and interventions that are tailored to cater to the unique needs of Nigerian girls and boys can effectively tackle their gender-specific obstacles and augment their overall welfare (Graham et al., 2018). Tailored support services and safe spaces can be effective in empowering girls who have faced discrimination or harassment to develop resilience and better manage these challenges.

Incorporating parents into educational programmes and workshops can enhance their comprehension of the gender-specific obstacles encountered by their offspring in the United Kingdom, as stated by Ogunsola (2017). According to Leavy and Smith (2010), these programmes have the potential to prompt parents to contemplate their cultural norms and child-rearing methods, which could be a factor in the continuation of gender-based roles and expectations in their offspring.

Encouraging and promoting educational and co-curricular activities that align with the interests and aspirations of Nigerian migrant children of both genders is of utmost importance. According to Mazzucato (2018), promoting equitable access to resources, opportunities, and support for both genders can aid in mitigating gender-specific obstacles and fostering the successful integration and well-being of boys and girls in the United Kingdom.

Overcoming Challenges and Harnessing Opportunities
The identification and implementation of strategies that effectively address the economic, social, and psychological challenges faced by Nigerian migrant children in the UK are critical to ensuring their successful integration and well-being. Numerous investigations have examined diverse methodologies for surmounting these obstacles, which can be implemented by households, educational institutions, civic groups, and decision-makers (Graham et al., 2018). According to Balčaitė (2016), a crucial approach to surmounting economic obstacles encountered by migrant households is to facilitate their access to information and resources pertaining to employment prospects and financial assistance in the United Kingdom. This may entail furnishing direction and tutelage to parents who are in pursuit of employment opportunities that align with their competencies and credentials, in addition to facilitating their access to auxiliary services like vocational education initiatives and monetary assistance.

Onume (2018) argues that it is imperative to provide Nigerian migrant children with adequate access to quality education and healthcare in order to address economic challenges and promote their overall welfare. Collaboration with educational institutions and healthcare providers can be a viable approach to ensure that Nigerian migrants are well-informed about the resources at their disposal and can adeptly navigate the education and healthcare systems in the UK (McLaren & Woods, 2018). According to Rutter et al. (2008), promoting cultural sensitivity and awareness in schools and communities can contribute to addressing social challenges and creating a more inclusive environment for Nigerian migrant children. The task at hand entails the creation of educational initiatives and workshops that emphasise the cultural values of Nigeria, while also fostering cultural exchange and comprehension. Incorporating peer support networks and social groups can be a beneficial strategy for promoting social connections among Nigerian migrant children, thereby facilitating a sense of belonging and support within their new surroundings (Nwoye, 2014). To effectively tackle the psychological hurdles encountered by Nigerian migrant children, it is imperative to offer customised mental health services and assistance that account for their distinct experiences and requirements. Collaboration between mental health professionals, schools, and community organisations can lead to the creation of mental health programmes for migrant children. These programmes may include counselling services, peer support groups, and workshops that focus on topics such as migration, acculturation, and identity formation. (Fazel et al., 2012).

Acknowledging and mitigating the obstacles encountered by Nigerian migrant children in the United Kingdom is crucial; however, it is equally imperative to acknowledge and capitalise on the potential benefits that migration can offer these children. The aforementioned prospects encompass scholastic and professional ambitions, cross-border connections, and impacts on both Nigeria and the United Kingdom. According to Onume (2018), a noteworthy prospect offered by the United Kingdom pertains to the provision of high-quality education for migrant children from Nigeria. In order to fully utilise the potential of migrant children, it is recommended that both migrant families and support organisations actively promote and facilitate the pursuit of academic goals, while also providing necessary resources to enhance academic performance. According to Graham et al. (2018), one approach to supporting children's education is to provide them with tutoring, mentorship, and financial assistance for educational expenses. Additionally, facilitating access to extracurricular activities and enrichment programmes can aid in the development of valuable skills and interests.

The promotion of internships, work experience, and networking opportunities within the desired fields can facilitate the nurturing and support of career aspirations among Nigerian migrant children in the UK, as suggested by Balčaitė (2016). Organisations and educational institutions that provide assistance to migrants can facilitate the process of linking children with professionals and industries that are in line with their career aspirations. This can involve providing guidance on career pathways and opportunities for skills development. According to Nwoye's (2014) research, the existence of transnational connections between Nigerian migrant children and their country of origin can serve as a platform for fostering cultural exchange, sharing of knowledge, and making economic contributions. By nurturing their ties with Nigerian culture and society, these youngsters can cultivate a notion of worldwide membership, promoting reciprocal comprehension between Nigeria and the United Kingdom. The implementation of programmes that foster diaspora engagement and transnational initiatives has the potential to optimise the valuable contributions of Nigerian migrants to their countries of origin and destination.

Conclusion
In sum, the literature reviewed has shed light on the various economic, social, and psychological impacts of migration on Nigerian children who migrated with their parents to the UK. The key findings from this review include the potential for improved financial resources, access to quality education and healthcare, and the opportunities for stable employment for parents (Adepoju, 2004; Mazzucato, 2018; Onume, 2018). However, it also highlights the challenges faced by Nigerian migrant children, such as identity formation and belonging, experiences with discrimination and racism, and access to social support networks and community resources (Rutter et al., 2008; Ogunsola, 2017; Dummett, 2020). Furthermore, the literature emphasizes the role of gender in shaping the challenges faced by Nigerian migrant children in the UK (Leavy & Smith, 2010).

The importance of continued research and policy development in this area cannot be overstated. Understanding the experiences and challenges faced by Nigerian migrant children in the UK is crucial for the development of targeted interventions and support mechanisms that can facilitate their successful integration and well-being. Thus, future research and policy development should focus on addressing the unique needs of this population, as well as promoting opportunities for their educational, social, and psychological growth within the UK context (Graham et al., 2018; Fazel et al., 2012; Office for National Statistics, 2022).