Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) says that over 71,459 Nigerians have obtained Canadian citizenship between 2005 and 2024.
The IRCC is a department of the Canadian government responsible for issues relating to immigration in the North American country, refugees and Canadian citizenship.
This number places Nigeria tenth on the list of new Canadian citizens by country of birth.
Data released by the Immigration Service shows that while new Canadians come from at least 196 countries and territories, the top 10 places account for nearly half of all new citizens.
The IRCC said the data highlights the diversity of the new population of Canadian citizens.
Irene Bloemraad, a political sociologist and migration expert, told CTVNews that high levels of citizenship are positive.
Bloemraad said research shows a correlation between retaining citizenship and better economic outcomes.
“Canada stands out among other host countries for its very high level of citizenship among immigrants to the country,” Bloemraad said.
“High levels of citizenship are a good thing: research shows a correlation between citizenship and better economic outcomes, a greater sense of belonging to Canada, and, of course, the ability to participate in elections and have a say in politics.”
IRCC data shows that India has been the largest source of new Canadians since 2005, with 536,279 individuals gaining citizenship.
The Philippines follows closely with 395,694 new citizens, and China is in third place with 292,325.
Beyond these top three, a wide range of countries contribute significantly to Canada’s population growth.
Pakistan ranks fourth with 180,999 new citizens, followed by Iran (130,998), the United States (99,652), the United Kingdom (98,837), Syria (72,706), South Korea (71,939) and Nigeria with 71,459 new citizens. The top 10.
Al Parsai, a Toronto-based immigration consultant, said the data underscores Canada’s commitment to multiculturalism and diversity.
“The steady number of new citizens from countries like India and the Philippines reflects their significant contributions to the Canadian labor market and society,” Parsai said.
“The increase in new citizens from conflict-affected countries, such as Syria and Ukraine, highlights Canada’s role in providing shelter and support to those in need.
“The fact that the new citizens come from nearly 200 different countries and territories demonstrates Canada’s global attractiveness and inclusive immigration policies.”
In November 2023, Canada announced a new immigration plan for skilled workers, caregivers, families and other categories.
In a statement released by the Canadian Citizenship and Immigration Service (CIC), the North American country will aim to admit 485,000 new immigrants.
“In 2025 and 2026, Canada will aim to welcome 500,000 new immigrants each year,” the CIC added.
The Canadian government has said the immigration plans will cover the economic, family, refugee and humanitarian classes. [TheCable]
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