Colin Moulding has explained this song on their video compilation to be about parents who map out their kids' future for them and to also be somewhat autobiographical.[Verse 1]

We're only making plans for Nigel

We only want what's best for him

We're only making plans for Nigel

Nigel just needs that helping hand

[Chorus]

And if young Nigel says he's happy

He must be happy

He must be happy

He must be happy in his world

[Verse 2]

We're only making plans for Nigel

He has his future in a British Steel

We're only making plans for Nigel

Nigel's whole future is as good as sealed, yeah

[Chorus]

And if young Nigel says he's happy

He must be happy

He must be happy

He must be happy in his world

[Bridge]

Nigel is not outspoken

But he likes to speak

And he likes to be spoken to

(in his world)

Nigel is happy in his work

(in his world)

Nigel is happy in his work

(in his world)

[Verse 1]

We're only making plans for Nigel

We only want what's best for him

We're only making plans for Nigel

Nigel just needs this helping hand

[Chorus]

And if young Nigel says he's happy

He must be happy

He must be happy

He must be happy in his world

[Guitar Solo]

[Outro]

We're only making plans for Nigel

We only want what's best for him

We're only making plans for Nigel

Nigel just needs this helping hand

We're only making plans for Nigel

He has his future in a British Steel

Steel, steel, steel, steel, steel, yeah

We're only making plans for Nigel

Nigel, Nigel, Nigel, Nigel

Nigel, Nigel, Nigel, Nigel

Nigel, Nigel, Nigel, Nigel

Nigel, Nigel, Nigel, Nigel