Canada Rejects 1,596 Nigerian Asylum Claims

Canada has rejected 1,596 Nigerian asylum applications in 2025, even as the country recorded 3,548 claims from Nigerians — with 2,292 approved, a 65% acceptance rate.

Nigerians remain among the top asylum seekers in Canada, alongside citizens of Mexico, India, Haiti, and Colombia. Analysts link the trend to insecurity and economic hardship at home. Ontario and Alberta host the largest share of Nigerian claimants.

Canada grants asylum only to applicants who meet UN refugee criteria, requiring proof of persecution risk or threats to life. Between 2013 and 2024, more than 13,000 Nigerian claims were denied, though 10,580 were approved, including 2,200 in 2024.

Migration expert Imaobong Ladipo-Sanusi noted that many rejections stem from irregular migration practices, stressing the need for safe and lawful processes.