ABSTRACT

Over the last decade, Canada has emerged as a top destination for skilled and educated Nigerians seeking better socio-economic opportunities abroad. This study critically appraises the impact of Canadian immigration policies on the migration aspirations of Nigerians between 2012 and 2023. Using a qualitative-dominant mixed-methods approach, the research draws on content analysis of Canadian immigration policy documents, secondary migration data from IRCC and the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics, and semi-structured interviews with intending Nigerian migrants and immigration consultants. The findings reveal that while Canada’s points-based immigration system, study-permit pathways, and express entry programs have encouraged an increase in applications from Nigerians, recent policy adjustments, including higher proof of funds requirements, tighter work-permit rules, and caps on international students, have introduced new barriers. The paper concludes that Canadian immigration policies, though generally favourable compared to other Global North countries, remain selectively open and structurally limiting. It calls for a balanced migration policy engagement between origin and destination countries, while recommending Nigeria develop retention strategies for skilled talent.