Top 10 Foreign Countries with the Largest Nigerian Population in 2024

Nigerians have long been recognized for their strong cultural presence and far-reaching influence across the globe. The Nigerian diaspora plays a significant role in shaping global perceptions of Africa’s most populous nation, with over 17 million Nigerians living abroad, according to the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). This massive global migration is driven by various factors, including educational opportunities, economic prospects, and social stability.

In 2024, several countries continue to stand out as popular destinations for Nigerians seeking new opportunities. Below are the top 10 foreign countries with the largest Nigerian populations:

1. United States 🇺🇸 – 353,885

The United States boasts the largest Nigerian diaspora, with an estimated 353,885 Nigerians calling it home in 2024. Nigerian migration to the U.S. began in earnest during the 1960s and has continued to grow steadily over the years. Today, Nigerians in the U.S. are prominent in various sectors, including healthcare, education, business, and technology. States like Texas, New York, Maryland, and Georgia host some of the largest Nigerian communities.

Nigerians in the U.S. have made significant contributions to the country’s cultural and professional landscape. Nigerian-American entrepreneurs, doctors, and academics are frequently recognized for their expertise, and the community is known for maintaining strong ties with family and friends back in Nigeria through remittances and business ventures.

2. United Kingdom 🇬🇧 – 215,000

The United Kingdom is home to the second-largest Nigerian population, with about 215,000 Nigerians living there as of 2024. This strong connection can be traced back to the colonial era when Nigeria was a British colony. Today, many Nigerians pursue higher education in the UK, drawn by the country’s prestigious universities and academic programs.

London, Manchester, and Birmingham are popular cities for Nigerians, with significant Nigerian cultural hubs emerging over the years. From Nollywood cinema to Nigerian cuisine, the Nigerian influence in the UK is evident in various aspects of daily life. Additionally, the Nigerian diaspora in the UK remains politically active, advocating for issues that affect the Nigerian community both in the UK and back home.

3. Italy 🇮🇹 – 119,400

Italy ranks third, with around 119,400 Nigerians residing in the country in 2024. Nigerian migration to Italy increased significantly in the 1990s due to economic challenges at home and political instability. The Nigerian community in Italy is diverse, with many engaged in business, agriculture, and service industries.

Italian cities like Rome, Milan, and Naples are home to the largest Nigerian populations. While the community has faced challenges such as discrimination and integration issues, Nigerians in Italy have persevered and contributed to the country’s multicultural fabric.

4. United Arab Emirates 🇦🇪 – 100,000

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a rapidly growing destination for Nigerians, with an estimated 100,000 Nigerians living there in 2024. The UAE’s booming economy, tax-free income, and business-friendly environment attract Nigerian entrepreneurs, professionals, and workers. Nigerians are particularly drawn to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, where they are involved in sectors like real estate, hospitality, and trading.

Although the Nigerian community in the UAE faces strict immigration policies, they have carved out a space for themselves, with Nigerian culture visible through food, music, and business ventures in cities across the Emirates.

5. Brazil 🇧🇷 – 90,000

Brazil might not be the first country that comes to mind when thinking about Nigerian migration, but with a population of about 90,000 Nigerians, it holds the fifth-largest Nigerian diaspora globally. This connection dates back to the transatlantic slave trade, with many Brazilians of African descent tracing their roots back to Nigeria.

Today, Nigeria and Brazil share cultural and historical ties, especially through religion, music, and language. Nigerian immigrants in Brazil are involved in various industries, including agriculture, construction, and services, primarily in cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Salvador.

6. Germany 🇩🇪 – 83,000

Germany, with approximately 83,000 Nigerians, ranks sixth on the list. Nigerians are drawn to Germany for its strong economy, world-class education system, and employment opportunities. Many Nigerian students choose Germany for its tuition-free universities, particularly in engineering, medicine, and technology fields.

The Nigerian community in Germany is diverse, with a growing number of professionals in industries like IT, healthcare, and academia. Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich are the main cities where Nigerians have established communities.

7. Canada 🇨🇦 – 70,000

Canada, with an estimated Nigerian population of 70,000, has become a prime destination for Nigerians seeking educational and professional opportunities. Known for its immigration-friendly policies, high standard of living, and robust healthcare system, Canada has attracted a steady flow of Nigerian immigrants.

Cities like Toronto, Calgary, and Vancouver are home to vibrant Nigerian communities. Nigerian professionals in Canada excel in sectors like healthcare, technology, and finance, contributing significantly to the country’s economy and multiculturalism.

8. Spain 🇪🇸 – 70,000

Spain ties with Canada in hosting around 70,000 Nigerians as of 2024. Nigerian migration to Spain has steadily increased over the last few decades, with many drawn to opportunities in agriculture, construction, and services. Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia are some of the cities where Nigerians have built strong communities.

Nigerians in Spain also maintain cultural ties to their homeland, organizing festivals, religious events, and business ventures that connect Spain and Nigeria.

9. South Africa 🇿🇦 – 31,000

South Africa is home to approximately 31,000 Nigerians, ranking ninth on the list. As one of the major economies on the African continent, South Africa has long been a popular destination for Nigerians seeking business opportunities, particularly in Johannesburg and Cape Town.

Nigerians in South Africa are involved in various sectors, including trade, education, and services. Despite occasional xenophobic tensions, the Nigerian community continues to grow and thrive in South Africa.

10. France 🇫🇷 – 30,000

With a Nigerian population of about 30,000, France rounds out the top 10. Paris, Marseille, and Lyon are the primary cities where Nigerians have established themselves, often drawn by educational opportunities and the chance to work in sectors like hospitality, healthcare, and technology.

The Nigerian presence in France continues to grow, contributing to the cultural diversity and economic vibrancy of the country.

The global Nigerian diaspora, spanning from North America to Europe and Africa, reflects the adaptability, resilience, and ambition of Nigerians. As the numbers continue to grow, so does the influence of Nigerians abroad, making significant contributions to the economies, cultures, and societies of their host countries.