Nigerian asylum seekers in Sweden filed 7,646 claims since 2000, but face high rejection rates, with 88% of 2024 applications denied

The data shows a consistent flow of Nigerians seeking international protection in the Nordic country, with 6,783 applications recorded between 2000 and 2021.

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In more recent years, 288 claims were filed in 2022, 200 in 2023, and 375 in 2024. Of the 2024 cases, 239 were first-time claims, while 136 were extension requests from those whose temporary permits were expiring.

Women made up nearly two-thirds of first-time applications in 2024, with most applicants aged between 25 and 44. Children were also part of the trend, with 60 travelling with families and one registering as an unaccompanied minor.

Historically, the peak came in 2013 with 601 Nigerian applications, though the numbers have remained far lower compared to war-torn countries such as Somalia, Eritrea, Sudan and Ethiopia. Somalia alone has accounted for more than 54,000 claims since 2000.

While Nigeria remains among Africa’s top five sources of asylum seekers in Sweden, rejection rates for its nationals are exceptionally high. In 2024, 88 per cent of Nigerian claims were denied, compared with 99 per cent for Colombians.

Authorities say many Nigerian applications are linked more to economic hardship than to persecution or armed conflict, factors that influence fast-track rejections.

Sweden’s asylum system, rooted in the Aliens Act and international refugee conventions, prioritises claims based on war, persecution, or severe humanitarian need.

However, recent policy shifts—especially the Tidö Agreement of 2023—have tightened eligibility and imposed tougher conditions on residency and naturalisation.

Globally, asylum grants in Sweden have gone mainly to nationals of Syria, Afghanistan, Eritrea, Somalia, and Ukraine, while denials remain highest for Nigerians, Indians, Bangladeshis, Georgians, and several North African countries.

Commenting on the figures, Abuja-based development economist Dr Aliyu Ilias described the trend as a sign of “total brain drain.” He said the permanent settlement of Nigerians abroad, often in skilled professions, was eroding the country’s economic potential.

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“For the economy, it is reducing our GDP. The appalling part is that most of our Nigerian brothers and sisters who go out do not return,” he warned.