Nigeria has emerged as the fourth-largest source of new permanent residents to Canada in the first half of 2026, underscoring the continued wave of migration by Nigerians seeking better economic opportunities abroad. Fresh figures from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), compiled by TheCable Index, show that Nigeria accounted for 7,360 new Canadian permanent residents as of the second quarter of 2026, placing the country fourth globally.
Top 15 countries of origin for Canada's new permanent residents (Q2 2026)
India retained the top spot with 36,910 new permanent residents, more than three times the Philippines' total of 11,055. China followed with 7,945, and Nigeria came fourth with 7,360. Cameroon placed fifth with 6,765 new permanent residents, making it one of Africa's strongest contributors. Other countries in the top 15 include Ukraine (3,495), France (3,450), Pakistan (3,330), Iran (2,985), the United States (2,905), Eritrea (2,810), Colombia (2,750), Mexico (2,750), Algeria (2,715), and Morocco (2,260).
Drivers of the 'Japa' movement
For years, thousands of Nigerians have left the country in search of improved living standards, stable jobs, quality education and stronger healthcare systems. The trend, popularly described as the "Japa" movement, has gathered momentum amid rising inflation, high unemployment, the soaring cost of living and the weakening purchasing power of households. Many professionals, skilled workers, students and families have increasingly viewed relocation as a pathway to greater financial stability and career growth. While governments have repeatedly pledged to improve economic conditions, migration to countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and the United States has remained strong.
Canada's new immigration timeline and asylum rules
In an earlier report, Nigerians seeking visas and work permits to Canada will face longer waiting periods in several key immigration categories, according to the latest processing time update released by IRCC. The June 2026 figures show a mixed picture across Canada's immigration system. While some programmes recorded faster processing times, Nigerian applicants experienced setbacks in areas such as visitor visas and work permits.
Canada has also rolled out far-reaching changes to its immigration and asylum framework that will affect Nigerians and other foreign nationals seeking protection, study, or work opportunities in the country. The reforms follow the passage of Bill C-12, officially titled the Strengthening Canada’s Immigration System and Borders Act, which received royal assent on March 26, 2026.
