Figures cited by Nigeria Communications Week show that 974 Nigerian nationals are currently in the ‘removal-in-progress’ stage in Canada. Data from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) indicates a significant surge in enforcement actions, with over 360 Nigerians already deported between January and October of the previous year. The majority of those facing deportation—roughly 83%—are failed refugee claimants, while a small percentage involves individuals with criminal records.
The uptick in deportations comes as Canada tightens its immigration and asylum policies amidst domestic housing and economic pressures. Nigerian community leaders in Canada have expressed concern over the ‘enforcement surge,’ noting that many of those affected are awaiting final travel documents from the Nigerian High Commission. This development highlights the increasing difficulty faced by ‘Japa’ hopefuls seeking asylum in North American countries.
Corroborating details from Daily Post and Vanguard highlight the legal struggles of these migrants. Daily Post noted that ‘legal aid for failed asylum seekers has been slashed,’ while Vanguard quoted a migration expert: ‘The era of easy asylum in Canada is officially over for West Africans.’
Echotitbits take: This is a reality check for the ‘Japa’ generation. Canada was long seen as the ‘friendlier’ alternative to the UK or US, but this data shows that the honeymoon is over. Prospective migrants should watch for even stricter visa requirements as Canada prepares for its own 2026 federal elections.
Source: The Punch – http://punchng.com/canada-deports-366-nigerians-974-await-removal/ Week January 5, 2026
Photo Credit: The Punch
