Many Nigerians and other Africans who died in the United Kingdom without a will may lose their unclaimed estates, as the United Kingdom government continues to list properties, savings, and other assets without known heirs.
The latest UK unclaimed estates list, updated daily, includes over 170 names of African-born individuals, with a large number of Nigerians among them.
Many migrants worked hard to build wealth in the UK but passed away without leaving behind a will or next of kin records. This means their estates are classified as *bona vacantia* (ownerless goods) and taken over by the Crown.
Some cases include Adenike Adebiyi, who died in Hackney, London, in 2004, and Solomon Adekanmibi, who passed away in Colchester, Essex, in 2021. Since no relatives have come forward to claim their estates, their wealth remains in limbo.
Experts warn that many African families may never know about these unclaimed properties because of lost communication or a lack of proper records.
Legal experts say the problem goes beyond financial loss.
“The assets left behind tell the story of migration, struggle, and success, yet they are lost forever due to a lack of documentation,” said a UK-based estate lawyer, David Morgan.
Cultural beliefs also play a role, as many African families avoid discussing wills or death-related matters.
“In many African cultures, talking about wills is seen as a bad omen. But this silence means many families lose their rightful inheritance,” Morgan added.
Experts suggest that families should check the UK unclaimed estates list, which is available online and updated regularly.
Governments, community organizations, and legal professionals are also urged to educate Nigerians and other African migrants about writing wills and keeping proper records of their assets.
The UK government provides a free online tool where families can search for unclaimed estates by name, birthplace, or other details.
For families looking to check the latest update as of March 24, 2025, the list is available [HERE].
