Canada approves 3,463 Nigerian asylum claims in 2025, 21,573 still pending
Canada approved 3,463 asylum applications from Nigerians in 2025, with a 68% approval rate, while 21,573 claims remained unresolved at year-end according to IRB data released February 13. Nigerians filed 6,765 total claims in 2025—1,377 refused, 46 abandoned, 153 withdrawn or other outcomes. This marks a significant increase from previous years when only 2,230 of 16,267 claims were granted. Nigeria ranked among top origin countries for Canadian asylum seekers alongside India, Haiti, Iran, and Mexico. Successful applicants gain protected status and can apply for permanent residence; denied claims may trigger removal proceedings. Overall, Canada processed 107,802 asylum claims globally in 2025, approving 14,619. The IRB notes rising applications due to global instability but reports a 64% drop in new claims between January-February 2026 versus 2024. Provinces like Quebec, Ontario, Alberta, and BC host most asylum seekers. With thousands still awaiting decisions, what does this trend suggest about Nigerians' perceived safety at home, and how might changing approval rates affect future migration decisions?