Canada denied refugee status to 13,171 Nigerians from 2013 to 2024, with 811 rejections in 2024 alone. Nigeria ranks among the top five most rejected nations, reflecting stricter immigration policies. Experts warn of economic and brain drain consequences as Nigerian professionals continue seeking better opportunities abroad.
Canada denied refugee status to 13,171 Nigerians from 2013 to 2024, with 811 rejections in 2024 alone. Nigeria ranks among the top five most rejected nations, reflecting stricter immigration policies. Experts warn of economic and brain drain consequences as Nigerian professionals seek better opportunities abroad.
According to data from the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada, Canada has denied asylum to 13,171 Nigerians over the past decade, with 811 rejections recorded in 2024 alone. Nigeria ranks among the top five countries with the highest refugee application rejections, highlighting the increasing challenges faced by migrants seeking protection.
The rejection rate has raised concerns among immigration advocates, who argue that many Nigerian applicants flee economic hardship, political instability, and security threats, including terrorism and banditry. However, Canadian authorities emphasize the need for stricter vetting processes, citing fraudulent claims and the need to prioritize genuine refugees.
Experts warn that the continued denial of asylum could push more Nigerians toward irregular migration routes, increasing risks of human trafficking and exploitation. Additionally, the trend underscores Nigeria’s ongoing brain drain, as many professionals continue seeking better opportunities abroad despite the hurdles.
With Canada tightening its immigration policies, analysts predict that asylum approvals for Nigerians may decline further, making it even more challenging for applicants to gain refugee status in the country.
