In 2024, a total of 375 Nigerian citizens sought asylum in Sweden, according to the Swedish Migration Agency’s data. Of the 375 applications, 239 were first-time claims, while 136 were extensions from individuals whose temporary status was nearing expiration.
The report highlights that nearly two-thirds of the first-time claims were filed by women, with 159 women and 80 men among the applicants.
“Half of the Nigerian applicants were between 25 and 44 years old,” the report stated, with children accompanying 60 adults, and one child traveling alone as an unaccompanied minor.
Nigeria ranked fourth among African nations and ninth globally in asylum applications. Other countries with significant numbers of asylum seekers included Eritrea, Somalia, and Ethiopia, with Nigeria coming just ahead of Sudan and Uganda.
Commenting on the rise in asylum seekers, Charles Onunaiju, Research Director at the Centre for China Studies, Abuja, said, “Since Nigeria is becoming inhospitable, especially for young people with no opportunities, there is desperation to go abroad.”
Development economist Dr. Aliyu Ilias added, “It’s definitely a cause of concern because this includes our professionals who are moving, and it takes a whole lot to train these professionals.”
The increase in Nigerian asylum seekers is largely attributed to ongoing challenges in the country, including insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and a deteriorating economic situation.
As many Nigerians seek refuge abroad, experts warn that this brain drain is depleting Nigeria of skilled professionals, ultimately affecting the country’s economy.
This influx reflects a broader trend of Nigerians seeking safer and more stable futures in Europe, despite the uncertain prospects asylum may hold.
