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
Making Plans for Nigel was written by Colin Moulding.
Making Plans for Nigel was produced by Steve Lillywhite.
XTC released Making Plans for Nigel on Fri Sep 07 1979.