Each year, thousands in the UK pass away without leaving a will, and among them are many Nigerians and other Africans. These individuals’ estates—ranging from property to savings—remain unclaimed. The UK government regularly updates a list of such estates, which currently includes over 170 entries related to African-born individuals, with Nigerians representing a large share.
A Legacy Lost
For many migrants, the UK became a second home—a place where they established wealth, purchased property, and created a new life. Unfortunately, without a will, their estates are considered “bona vacantia” (ownerless property) and pass to the Crown. Many families back in Africa remain unaware of these estates, resulting in a permanent loss of wealth and family legacies.
For instance, the cases of Adenike Adebiyi, who died in Hackney in 2004, and Solomon Adekanmibi, who passed away in Colchester in 2021, highlight the risk of estates going unclaimed due to the absence of identified heirs or missing documentation.
Why It Matters
This situation points to a critical issue: African families often lack awareness of the financial situations of their relatives living abroad. Migration disrupts communication, and without clear records, assets built overseas remain inaccessible. The impact is not just financial—it’s cultural and emotional. Unclaimed estates carry untold family histories, connections, and the struggles of migrants who built their lives in the diaspora.
The Challenges
– Lack of Awareness: Many families in Africa are unaware of their relatives’ estates abroad and how to claim them.
– Genealogical Gaps: The UK unclaimed estates list often lacks detailed family history or next-of-kin information.
– Cultural Hesitations: In many African cultures, discussing death and estate planning is taboo, preventing proper asset distribution.
A Call to Action
To address this issue, African governments, community organizations, and legal professionals need to raise awareness. Here’s how:
– Encouraging Will Writing: Educating diaspora migrants on the importance of drafting wills to protect their assets.
– Genealogical Support: Assisting families in tracing unclaimed estates through local or international partnerships.
– Public Awareness Campaigns: Using media to highlight estate planning and provide resources to families.
How to Check the List
The UK government maintains a public Unclaimed Estates List, updated daily. Families can search by name, place of birth, or other identifiers to check for potential claims.
Final Thoughts
For many Nigerians and Africans in the UK, unclaimed estates represent more than wealth—they are symbols of migration, resilience, and identity. By addressing this issue, families can reclaim their heritage, ensuring the legacies of those who migrated to the diaspora are not forgotten.
For the most current list, visit [the UK Unclaimed Estates List] (link).
