Impact of Immigration on Labour Market and Economic Growth in Nigeria

Abstract

Migration is the movement of people from one place to another, either within a country or across international borders, for various purposes such as work, education, or seeking better living conditions. The receiving labor market is impacted, either positively or negatively, to some degree. This paper's main goal is to investigate how immigration affects Nigeria's labor market and economic growth. It was based on the brain drain and remittances theoretical framework developed by Beine, Docquier, and Rapoport (2001). This paper relies heavily on qualitative analysis. It argues that migration has caused a significant shortage of skilled workers across various sectors in Nigeria. Additionally, the paper asserts that economic development in Nigeria has been positively impacted by the large number of immigrants. These immigrants not only work in the country but also invest in various sectors of the economy of the host country. It results in a large loss of tax revenue due to the migration of educated and competent individuals. The paper concludes by recommending policies and economic activities that are employment-driven as a solution to curb the large-scale migration of Nigerians seeking better opportunities abroad.