Maple News reports that Canada continues to be a top destination for Nigerian immigrants, offering a combination of economic opportunity, political stability, world-class education, and a high-quality healthcare system.
According to Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan, the country aims to welcome 465,000 new permanent residents by the end of 2023, increasing to 500,000 by 2025. In 2022 alone, over 22,000 Nigerians immigrated to Canada, making Nigeria the fourth-largest source country of immigrants. More than 100,000 people of Nigerian descent currently live in Canada, highlighting a strong and growing diaspora.
For Nigerians seeking to become permanent residents, several key immigration pathways are available — the most prominent being the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
The FSWP, part of Canada’s Express Entry system, targets skilled foreign professionals who do not necessarily have a job offer or prior Canadian experience. To qualify, candidates must have at least one year of continuous full-time paid work experience in a skilled occupation, demonstrate language proficiency at CLB level 7 or higher, hold a recognized education credential (or an Educational Credential Assessment for foreign degrees), score at least 67 points on the immigration selection grid, and show proof of funds adequate for settling in Canada.
Applicants are assessed and ranked through the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which takes into account age, education, work experience, language skills, and other human capital factors. In a move to attract in-demand talent, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently introduced category-based Express Entry draws, prioritizing candidates with French language proficiency or experience in fields such as healthcare, STEM, trades, transportation, and agriculture.
Another viable option is the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). This allows Canada’s provinces and territories—except Quebec and Nunavut—to nominate immigration candidates based on their local labor market needs. Each region operates its own PNP streams, which may target skilled workers, international students, or entrepreneurs. A nomination from a province significantly boosts a candidate’s CRS score, enhancing their chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency.
With the Canadian government committed to expanding immigration targets and addressing labor shortages, Nigerians with the right qualifications and planning have several robust pathways to successfully make Canada their new home.