A recent report has revealed that over half of Nigerians are seriously considering emigration.
According to the findings, 56% of Nigerians have considered leaving the country, marking a 20 percentage point increase since 2017.
The desire to emigrate has grown significantly in the past few years, with a sharp rise in those saying they’ve given the idea “a lot” of thought.
The percentage of Nigerians who have thought deeply about emigrating has tripled, from 11% in 2017 to 33% in 2024.
This increase highlights the growing dissatisfaction with life in Nigeria, particularly driven by economic hardship and the search for better opportunities.
The findings were part of a new report published by Afrobarometer, a pan-African research network.
The report was released on December 18, coinciding with International Migration Day, which marks the adoption of a key resolution by the UN General Assembly regarding migrant workers.
Afrobarometer’s research indicates that Nigerians are most interested in emigrating to North America, Europe, and the Middle East.
The desire to leave Nigeria is most common among younger people, educated citizens, and those living in urban areas.
In fact, 71% of Nigerians with post-secondary school qualifications have considered leaving, as have 63% of those in urban areas.
Among citizens aged 18 to 35, 60% are considering emigration.
These statistics reveal that the nation’s most educated and young populations are feeling the strain of Nigeria’s economic challenges.
“The growing interest in emigration among educated and younger Nigerians is a direct reflection of the economic difficulties they face,” said a researcher from Afrobarometer.
The report further noted that over the past six to eight years, the number of Nigerians considering emigration has risen by 21 percentage points.
This dramatic rise in emigration interest is more than double the continental average, which saw a 9 percentage point increase across other African countries.
The study was based on face-to-face interviews with 1,600 adult Nigerians conducted from June to July 2024.
Afrobarometer said the survey had a margin of error of +/- 2.5 percentage points, ensuring reliable results at a 95% confidence level.
Across the continent, Afrobarometer surveyed 23 other African nations, where nearly half of respondents expressed similar desires to leave their home countries.
In total, 47% of Africans surveyed have thought about emigrating, with 27% having given it serious thought.
The trend is driven primarily by the need to escape economic hardship and find better job opportunities.
Countries such as Liberia, Gambia, Cabo Verde, and Ghana saw the highest levels of emigration intentions, with Liberia leading at 78%.
Interestingly, Tanzania was the only country surveyed where emigration intentions actually decreased, with only 9% of its citizens interested in leaving.
The survey also highlighted that North America and Europe remain the most popular destinations for Africans considering emigration.
31% of potential emigrants prefer North America, while 29% favor Europe.
A quarter of respondents across 24 African countries expressed interest in relocating within Africa, showing a growing preference for regional mobility.
However, the most significant numbers are still directed toward leaving the continent entirely.
Economic factors are the primary motivator for those seeking to emigrate.
Nearly half of those interested in leaving their countries cited the need for work as their main reason.
This is a stark reminder of the high unemployment rate and limited job opportunities in many African countries, including Nigeria.
“This trend of emigration intentions reflects a deep-seated desire for better opportunities,” said a political analyst.
For many Nigerians, the daily struggles of life—economic insecurity, unemployment, and limited opportunities—are becoming unbearable.
The situation has worsened over the years, with many young Nigerians now seeing emigration as the only viable option for a better future.
“Emigration has become a symbol of hope for those who feel trapped in a failing system,” said an economist.
The report’s findings reflect a broader, continent-wide pattern, as many Africans express frustration with their countries’ economic situations.
The rising numbers of those seeking to leave have prompted serious discussions about the role of government in addressing these concerns.
Economic experts warn that if the trend continues, it could have serious implications for the development of African nations.
“As more skilled and educated citizens leave, the continent risks a ‘brain drain’ that could hinder growth and development,” said a development expert.
Nigerians, in particular, are concerned with the lack of progress in key sectors like education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
For many, the current state of the economy, with its soaring inflation and high unemployment rates, makes staying in Nigeria seem like an untenable option.
As the report highlights, the yearning for a better life and the search for new opportunities are the main drivers behind the desire to emigrate.
With over half of the population now considering leaving, it’s clear that Nigeria’s future is facing a serious crossroads.
The government must act quickly to address the underlying issues of economic hardship, joblessness, and systemic corruption that are driving citizens to seek better lives abroad. “Until there are tangible improvements in the economy and living conditions, more Nigerians will continue to look elsewhere for a brighter future,” said a social analyst.
