Immigration and Economic Growth of Nigeria: A study of Awka Youths, Anambra State.

Immigration and Economic Growth of Nigeria: A study of Awka Youths, Anambra State.

Ugwoegbu, Ihechukwu Victor¹, Okoro, Ruth Chikwado², Obijiaku, Chimamkpa Promise³

¹Linkopings University, Sweden

^2,3Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria.

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2024.8100042

Received: 10 September 2024; Accepted: 21 September 2024; Published: 30 October 2024

ABSTRACT

The study explored the immigration and economic growth of Nigeria: A study of Awka youths, Anambra State. The specific objectives were to examine the relationship between political instability and human development in Nigeria. Also, to ascertain the relationship between asylum seeking and good governance in Nigeria. The study was anchored on Public Investment Theory, propounded by economist David Aschauer. The study used discriptive survey research design. The target population are 100 youths in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria, who were given a structured questionnaire to fill. Hypotheses were tested with Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient on Statistical Packages for Social Science (SPSS version 27) at 5% level of significance. Hypothesis one indicated that there is a statistically significant negative relationship between political instability and human development in Nigeria, with r = -0.648, n = 100 and p value of 0.006 (p<0.05). Hypothesis two showed that there is a statistically significant negative relationship between asylum seeking and good governance in Nigeria, with r = -0.812 n = 100 and p value of 0.000 (p<0.05). The study concluded that immigration has a detrimental effect on the economic growth of Nigeria, specifically among the youth in Awka, Anambra State, suggesting that policies addressing immigration and economic growth are needed. The study recommended that the Nigerian government needs to prioritize stabilizing the political environment to foster human development and well-being of its citizens.

Keywords: Immigration, Economic Growth, Political Instability, Youths, and Nigeria.

INTRODUCTION

Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa, has been experiencing a significant wave of immigration in recent years. The country’s youths are increasingly seeking better opportunities abroad, leading to a brain drain that has raised concerns about the impact on Nigeria’s economic growth. This phenomenon has been driven by a combination of factors, including poverty, unemployment, and political instability (Keji, 2021). The lack of economic opportunities in Nigeria has led to a situation where many young people are forced to seek greener pastures abroad, resulting in a loss of human capital and a brain drain that has hindered economic growth and development (Clemens, 2020).

The relationship between immigration and economic growth is complex and multifaceted. On one hand, immigration can lead to a loss of human capital, as skilled workers leave the country in search of better opportunities. This can result in a brain drain that hampers economic growth and development. On the other hand, immigration can also lead to the acquisition of new skills and knowledge, as well as the transfer of technology and innovation (Adeseye, 2021). This can have a positive impact on economic growth, as immigrants return home with new ideas and skills that can be leveraged to drive growth. However, the impact of immigration on economic growth in Nigeria has been largely negative, as the country has lost many of its best and brightest to other countries (Adeola & Oluyemi, 2022).

Awka, the capital of Anambra State, is a major urban center in southeastern Nigeria that has witnessed significant migration of its youths to other countries in recent years. The city’s proximity to the commercial hub of Onitsha and its rich cultural heritage makes it an attractive destination for tourists and investors alike. However, the economic opportunities available in Awka are limited, leading many of its youths to seek better prospects abroad. This study aimed to explore the motivations behind the migration of Awka youths, their experiences in destination countries, and the impact of their migration on the economic development of their home communities (Adah & Abasilin, 2023).

Economic growth in Nigeria has been shaped by a complex interplay of factors, including immigration. The country has a long history of immigration, dating back to the pre-colonial era, and has been a major destination for migrants from other parts of Africa, Europe, and Asia (International Labour Organization, 2019). Immigration has played a significant role in shaping Nigeria’s economic growth, particularly in the areas of labor, trade, and investment. Many immigrants have brought new skills, technologies, and entrepreneurial spirit to the country, contributing to economic growth and development. However, immigration has also posed significant challenges, such as brain drain, cultural tensions, and competition for jobs and resources. Despite these challenges, immigration has remained a vital component of Nigeria’s economic growth strategy, and the country continues to attract migrants from all over the world (International Organization of Migration, 2019). In recent years, the Nigerian government has implemented policies aimed at promoting economic growth through immigration, such as the creation of special economic zones and the relaxation of visa requirements for certain categories of immigrants. These policies have helped to attract foreign investment, promote entrepreneurship, and create jobs, contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth (International Migration Institute, 2021).

The impact of immigration on Nigeria’s economic growth is a topic of ongoing debate. While some argue that immigration leads to a loss of skilled workers and hampers economic growth, others contend that it provides an opportunity for Nigerians to acquire new skills and knowledge that can be leveraged to drive economic development back home. However, the evidence suggests that the negative impacts of immigration on Nigeria’s economic growth have outweighed the positive impacts (Obani & Odalonu, 2023). This study aimed to contribute to the debate on the impact of immigration on economic growth in Nigeria and to provide recommendations for policymakers on how to manage the flow of immigrants and harness the benefits of immigration for economic growth.

Statement of the Problem

The economic growth of Nigeria may have been hindered by several factors, including political instability, corruption, poor infrastructure, and a lack of investment in key sectors such as education and healthcare. The country’s reliance on oil exports has also made it vulnerable to fluctuations in the global economy. In this context, immigration can be seen as a coping mechanism for Nigerians who are seeking better opportunities abroad. However, the loss of human capital and the brain drain that has resulted from immigration have hindered economic growth and development in Nigeria. The country’s economy has struggled to create jobs and provide opportunities for its citizens, leading to a situation where many young people are forced to seek opportunities abroad. The country has lost many of its best and brightest to other countries, and the brain drain that has resulted has hindered economic growth and development.

The surge in asylum seeking among Awka youths in Anambra State, Nigeria, is a symptom of deeper political and economic challenges that require urgent attention. This study aims to investigate the relationship between immigration and economic development in Nigeria, with a focus on the experiences of Awka youths who have sought asylum in other countries. By exploring the motivations behind their migration and the impact of their departure on the local economy, this study hopes to identify potential solutions that can be leveraged to address the root causes of immigration and promote economic growth and development in Nigeria. Specifically, the study will examine how good governance and human development initiatives can be used to address the push factors of immigration, such as political instability, and create opportunities for Awka youths to contribute to the economic growth of their home communities.

Objectives of the Study

The broad objective of the study is to determine the relationship between immigration and economic growth of Nigeria: A study of Awka youths, Anambra State. Specifically, the study sought to:

1. Examine the relationship between political instability and human development in Nigeria.
2. Ascertain the relationship between asylum seeking and good governance in Nigeria.

Research Questions

1. What is the relationship between political instability and human development in Nigeria?
2. What is the relationship between asylum seeking and good governance in Nigeria?

Significance of the Study

The Nigerian government can benefit from this study in several ways. Firstly, the study’s findings can inform policy decisions on immigration, economic growth, and youth empowerment. By understanding the motivations and experiences of Awka youths who migrate, the government can develop targeted policies to address the push factors of immigration and create opportunities for economic growth and development. Additionally, the study’s recommendations on good governance and human development initiatives can help the government improve its governance structures and create an enabling environment for economic development. This can lead to increased economic growth, reduced poverty, and improved livelihoods for Nigerians.

The youths of Awka, Anambra State, can also benefit from this study. The study’s findings can empower them to make informed decisions about their migration choices and opportunities. By understanding the factors that drive immigration, youths can develop strategies to improve their economic well-being and make informed decisions about their livelihoods. Additionally, the study’s recommendations on human development initiatives can help youths acquire new skills and knowledge, enhancing their career prospects and employability. This can lead to improved livelihoods, reduced poverty, and increased economic growth among Awka youths.

Academics can benefit from this study because it contributes to the existing body of knowledge on immigration and economic development in Nigeria. The study’s findings can provide new insights into the motivations and experiences of Nigerian youths who migrate, and the impact of immigration on economic development. Additionally, the study’s mixed-methods approach can provide a model for future research on immigration and economic growth in Nigeria. The study can also facilitate collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders in the field of immigration and economic development, leading to new research opportunities and initiatives.

Scope of the Study

The geographical scope of this study is Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria. The study was delimited to Awka youths, Nigeria. The independent variable is immigration and its proxies are: political instability, and asylum seeking, while the dependent variable is economic development and its proxies are: human development, and good governance. This study was conducted within 2024.

CONCEPTUAL REVIEW

Immigration

Immigration is the process of individuals or groups of people moving from one country to another, with the intention of settling permanently in the new country. This movement can be motivated by a variety of factors, including economic, social, political, or environmental reasons (Adeseye, 2021). Economic motivations may include seeking better job opportunities, higher wages, or improved living standards. Social motivations may include reuniting with family members or friends who have already migrated, or seeking a more desirable social environment. Political motivations may include fleeing persecution, conflict, or instability in one’s home country. Environmental motivations may include escaping natural disasters, climate change, or other environmental factors that make one’s home country uninhabitable (Obed & Horsfall, 2023).

Immigration is the act of entering and settling in a new country, with the intention of making it one’s permanent home. This can involve a range of activities, including obtaining necessary visas or documentation, finding employment or starting a business, securing housing and healthcare, and integrating into the local culture and community. Immigration can have a profound impact on both the individual and the receiving country, and can involve a range of challenges and opportunities. For individuals, immigration can provide access to new economic, social, and cultural opportunities, but can also involve significant challenges such as language barriers, cultural adjustment, and separation from family and friends. For receiving countries, immigration can provide a source of labor, talent, and cultural diversity, but can also involve challenges such as integrating immigrants into the local economy and society, and addressing potential impacts on public services and infrastructure (Darkwah & Nahanga, 2024).

Immigration can be understood as a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that involves the movement of people across international borders, with a range of motivations, experiences, and outcomes. This movement can be driven by a variety of factors, including globalization, economic inequality, political instability, and environmental change. It can also involve a range of actors, including individuals, families, communities, and institutions, and can have a profound impact on both the sending and receiving countries. In the sending country, immigration can involve a loss of talent, skills, and labor, as well as potential negative impacts on economic development and social cohesion. In the receiving country, immigration can provide a source of labor, talent, and cultural diversity, but can also involve challenges such as integrating immigrants into the local economy and society, and addressing potential impacts on public services and infrastructure (Chikanda, 2019).

Political Instability

Political instability is a situation where a country’s political system is characterized by a high degree of uncertainty, fragmentation, and unpredictability, making it difficult for the government to maintain control and provide basic services to its citizens. This can manifest in various ways, including frequent changes in government, political violence, civil unrest, and institutional weakness. Political instability can be caused by a range of factors, such as ethnic and religious tensions, economic inequality, corruption, and external interference. It can also be exacerbated by factors such as weak institutions, lack of rule of law, and limited political participation. In a politically unstable environment, citizens may feel insecure and lack trust in their government, leading to social unrest, protests, and even violence. Political instability can also have negative impacts on economic development, as investors and businesses may be deterred by the uncertainty and risk associated with investing in a country with a unstable political environment (Liu, Chen & Zhang, 2023).

Political instability refers to where a country’s political system is unable to maintain social order and provide effective governance, leading to a breakdown in the rule of law and the protection of human rights. This can be caused by a range of factors, including political polarization, institutional gridlock, and the erosion of democratic norms and values. In a politically unstable environment, citizens may feel disconnected from their government and lack trust in the political process, leading to disillusionment and disengagement. Political instability can also have negative impacts on economic development, as the lack of effective governance and social order can lead to corruption, cronyism, and the misallocation of resources. Furthermore, political instability can also lead to external intervention, as other countries may seek to take advantage of the situation to advance their own interests. In extreme cases, political instability can even lead to the collapse of the state and the emergence of non-state actors, such as militias and terrorist groups, which can further exacerbate the situation and lead to a complete breakdown in social order (Adhikari, Clemens, Dempster & Ekeator, 2021).

Asylum Seeking

Asylum seeking refers to the process by which individuals or groups of people flee their home country or country of origin in search of safety and protection in another country, often due to persecution, war, or natural disasters. Asylum seekers are individuals who have crossed international borders and are seeking protection from a foreign government, typically because they have a well-founded fear of persecution based on their race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. The act of seeking asylum is a fundamental human right, enshrined in international law, and is designed to provide a safe haven for those who are fleeing harm or persecution. Asylum seekers often face significant challenges and risks as they navigate the asylum process, including detention, deportation, and uncertainty about their future. Despite these challenges, the act of seeking asylum is a courageous and desperate attempt by individuals to find safety and rebuild their lives (Kosyakova & Brücker, 2020).

Asylum seeking can be understood as a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that involves a range of social, political, and economic factors. Asylum seekers may be fleeing a range of situations, including conflict, political persecution, environmental disasters, or economic hardship. In many cases, asylum seekers are forced to flee their homes with little more than the clothes on their backs, and may have experienced trauma, violence, or other forms of harm. The asylum process can be lengthy and uncertain, and may involve multiple interviews, background checks, and other forms of assessment. Asylum seekers may also face significant barriers to integration, including language barriers, cultural differences, and discrimination. Despite these challenges, the act of seeking asylum is a testament to the human spirit and the desire for safety, dignity, and protection. It is a reminder that the international community has a responsibility to protect those who are fleeing harm and to provide a safe haven for those who are seeking asylum (Bezu & Stein, 2019).

Economic Growth

Economic growth, a vital component of economic development, involves the increase in production of goods and services, typically measured by GDP growth. Driven by innovation, investment, trade, and human capital development, it improves living standards, alleviates poverty, and creates wealth. Key indicators include GDP growth rate, income per capita, unemployment rate, inflation rate, and productivity growth (Keji, 2021). Effective governance, institutional reforms, education and healthcare investments, innovation promotion, and trade facilitation are crucial for sustainable and inclusive growth, addressing challenges like inequality, environmental degradation, and global uncertainty to ensure economic expansion benefits all segments of society (Oladipo, 2020).

Economic growth refers to the increase in the production of goods and services within an economy, typically measured by Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This type of growth results from increased utilization of resources such as labor, capital, and technology. Extensive economic growth is often achieved through expansion of existing industries, investment in infrastructure, and increased trade (Adiele & Umezuruike, 2021). Economic growth is characterized by the enhancement of productivity through technological advancements, innovation, and improved efficiency. Intensive economic growth leads to increased output without proportional increases in resource utilization. This type of growth focuses on optimizing existing resources, promoting research and development, and encouraging entrepreneurship (Adeseye, 2021). Economic growth encompasses balanced development, considering environmental, social, and economic impacts. Sustainable economic growth prioritizes equitable distribution of resources, environmental conservation, and social welfare. This type of growth ensures that economic development is resilient, environmentally conscious, and beneficial to all segments of society (Onyike, Ekeagwu & Alamba, 2020).

Human Development

Human development is a multidimensional concept that encompasses the process of improving the well-being, capabilities, and freedoms of individuals and societies. It involves the expansion of people’s choices, capabilities, and opportunities, and is focused on creating an environment where individuals can develop their full potential and lead productive, creative, and fulfilling lives. Human development is about investing in people’s capabilities, such as education and health, and creating opportunities for them to use those capabilities to improve their lives and communities. It recognizes that people are the drivers of development and that their capabilities and freedoms are essential for achieving sustainable development. Human development is a holistic concept that takes into account the social, economic, political, and cultural dimensions of development, and seeks to promote the well-being of all individuals, regardless of their race, gender, age, or background (Babalola, 2022).

Human development is a dynamic and continuous process that involves the transformation of individuals and societies over time. It is a process of growth, change, and evolution, and is influenced by a wide range of factors, including economic, social, political, and cultural factors. Human development is about creating a society where individuals can develop their full potential, and where they can live with dignity, respect, and freedom. It is about promoting social justice, equity, and inclusion, and about creating opportunities for all individuals to participate in the development process. Human development is a universal concept that applies to all individuals and societies, regardless of their level of development or their cultural background. It is a concept that is rooted in the principles of human rights, social justice, and sustainable development, and is focused on promoting the well-being of all individuals and societies (Dakuku, 2022).

Good Governance

Good governance means the process of managing public affairs in a manner that is transparent, accountable, and responsive to the needs of all citizens. It involves the creation of an environment that is conducive to economic growth, social justice, and human development, and where the rights of all individuals are protected. Good governance is about promoting the well-being of all citizens, and ensuring that the state is responsive to their needs and aspirations. It involves the creation of institutions that are strong, effective, and accountable, and where decision-making processes are transparent and inclusive. Good governance is also about promoting the rule of law, and ensuring that all citizens have access to justice and equal opportunities. It involves the creation of a culture of integrity, transparency, and accountability, where corruption and abuse of power are minimized (Akanji, 2022).

Good governance is a multifaceted concept that encompasses a wide range of dimensions, including political, economic, social, and environmental governance. It involves the creation of a political system that is democratic, participatory, and inclusive, where all citizens have the opportunity to participate in the decision-making process. Good governance is the creation of an economic system that is equitable, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of all citizens, where economic growth is balanced with social justice and environmental protection. This covers the creation of a social system that is just, equitable, and inclusive, where all citizens have access to basic services such as education, healthcare, and social protection (Akinpelu, 2021). Good governance is the provision of an environmental system that is sustainable, responsible, and protective of the natural resources and ecosystems that are essential for human well-being (Chhangani, 2023).

Theoretical Framework

This study was anchored on Public Investment Theory, propounded by economist David Aschauer in 1989. This theory suggests that public investment in areas such as infrastructure, education, and research can drive economic growth and development by crowding in private investment, generating positive externalities, and increasing returns to scale. This theory also highlights the importance of human development, as investments in education, healthcare, and social services can enhance human capital, leading to improved productivity, reduced inequality, and increased economic growth. Aschauer’s work challenged the traditional view that public investment crowds out private investment and instead argued that well-designed public investment can complement private investment, improve productivity, and reduce inequality. The theory emphasizes the importance of considering the quality and effectiveness of public investment, rather than just its quantity, and has influenced policy debates on the role of public investment in promoting economic growth, human development, and sustainable development. Aschauer’s work has been widely cited and built upon by other researchers, making him a prominent figure in the field of public finance, economic development, and human development.

Empirical Review

Obani & Odalonu (2023) examined impact of rising migration on socio-economic development of Nigeria. The study relied on secondary sources of data collection and data collected were analyzed using content analysis. The study was anchored on relative deprivation theory and argued that, poverty is the major driving force for migration of Nigerians to developed countries. The security, economic and political conditions in Nigeria have worsened the surge for people to migrate in search of better living conditions and safety. The study revealed that, Nigeria has lost skilled personnel with capacity of transforming the economy through the wealth of knowledge in their disposal to developed countries.

Obed & Horsfall (2023) determined family survival strategies in mitigating youth migration from Nigeria. The study had three purposes, three research questions guided the conduct of the study and one hypothesis was formulated and tested at 0.05 level of significance. The study adopted descriptive survey research design. The population of the study comprised 31,262 household found in Rivers State. The study has a sample size of 395 households in the Rivers State. An instrument titled “Family Survival Strategies Questionnaire (FSSQ)” was structured on a four-point rating scale of Very High Extent, High Extent, Low Extent and Very Low Extent was used for data collection and was validated by two experts. The study had a reliability coefficient of 0.75 indicating that the instrument was quite reliable enough for the study. Mean score and standard deviation were used in answering the research questions while One Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used in testing the hypothesis. The findings of the study revealed that downsizing, skill acquisition and home Gardening are the strategies of family survival for economic recovery and sustenance in the era of Jakpa Syndrome.

Liu, Chen & Zhang (2023) explored the nexus among corruption, political instability and natural resources on economic recovery in Vietnam. This study assessed the effects of corruption, political instability (PIS), and natural resources on economic development. We used data from 1980 to 2020 to apply linear and non-linear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL). Both approaches supported the theory when applied to Vietnam. The findings showed that PIS has a detrimental impact on a nation’s GDP, whereas natural resources increase GDP over the long and short term. In contrast, corruption temporarily boosts GDP, while lowering it over time. The asymmetric results over the long-term showed that as corruption increases, GDP decreases, and as corruption decreases, GDP increases.

Kosyakova & Brücker (2020) ascertained seeking asylum in Germany: Do human and social capital determine the outcome of asylum procedures? This article is the first to analyse whether the human and social capital of asylum-seekers affect the results of decisions regarding their asylum applications and the length of asylum procedures based on a comprehensive longitudinal survey of 5,300 refugees in Germany. It was found that socioeconomic and social capital resources increase the probability of approval of asylum applications and reduce the length of asylum procedures. Moreover, human capital is particularly rewarding for asylum-seekers from countries subject to severe political and civil rights violations, whereas social networks are more conducive when the case for protection is rather difficult to prove. Finally, asylum-seekers with a higher socioeconomic status before migration seem to be better positioned to efficiently instrumentalize social networks during the asylum process.

Gap in Literature

A comprehensive review of existing literature revealed significant gaps in methodology, variables, geographical scope, and time frame, highlighting the need for further investigation into the topic of immigration and economic growth of Nigeria: A study of Awka youths, Anambra State. Specifically, previous studies employed diverse research designs, sampling strategies, and data analysis techniques, and examined different variables, regions, and time frames, differing from the approach adopted in this study. To address these methodological, variable, geographical, and periodic gaps, this study aims to contribute to the existing body of knowledge by employing a targeted methodology, examining relevant variables, focusing on a specific location, and investigating a distinct time frame. By bridging these gaps, this research seeks to provide a fresh perspective, enhance the understanding of immigration and economic growth of Nigeria: A study of Awka youths, Anambra State, and inform evidence-based decision-making.

METHODOLOGY

This study adopted descriptive discriptive survey research design. It adopted primary source of data and secondary source of information. The study used convenience non-probability sampling technique. The target population are 100 youths in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria, who were given a structured questionnaire to fill. Hypotheses were tested with Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient on Statistical Packages for Social Science (SPSS version 27) at 5% level of significance.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Analysis of Data Related to Research Questions

Decision Rule:

The decision in this analysis section is determined by the average of the response of respondents. Strongly Agreed (5 points), Agreed (4 points), Disagreed (3 points), Strongly Disagreed (2 points) and Undecided (1 point). The average of the responses:

5 + 4 + 3 + 2 + 1

            5                = 3.0

Therefore, mean score below 3.0 would be considered as rejected and mean score of 3.0 and above will be considered as accepted.

Research Question 1: What is the relationship between political instability and human development in Nigeria?

Table 1: Political Instability

Source: Field Survey, 2024

In table 1, all the items were addressing the first research question which is “What is the relationship between political instability and human development in Nigeria?” From the data analysis, items 4 and 6 obtained a mean rating above the criterion mean of 3.0 and items 1, 2, 3, 5, 7 and 8 obtained a mean rating below the criterion mean of 3.0. The result of the analysis indicated that majority of the respondents did not support that political instability relates with human development in Nigeria.

Research Question 2: What is the relationship between asylum seeking and good governance in Nigeria?

Table 2: Asylum Seeking

Source: Field Survey, 2024

In table 2, all the items were addressing the first research question which is “What is the relationship between asylum seeking and good governance in Nigeria?” From the data analysis, items 11 and 14 obtained a mean rating above the criterion mean of 3.0 and items  9, 10, 12, 13, 15 and 16 obtained a mean rating below the criterion mean of 3.0. The result of the analysis indicated that majority of the respondents did not suppor that asylum seeking relates with good governance in Nigeria.

Hypotheses Testing

Decision Rule: Reject the null hypothesis and accept the alternate if P-value < 0.05; if otherwise, accept the null Hypothesis.

Hypothesis One

Ho: There is no statistically significant relationship between political instability and human development in Nigeria.

Ha: There is a statistically significant relationship between political instability and human development in Nigeria.

Table 3 Correlations

Source: SPSS ver. 27 Outputs.

Discussion of Finding

Table 3 shows that there is a statistically significant negative relationship between political instability and human development in Nigeria, with r = -0.648, n = 100 and p value of 0.006 (p<0.05). Therefore, the study accepted the alternate hypothesis and concluded that there is a statistically significant negative relationship between political instability and human development in Nigeria. The implication is that political instability in Nigeria hinders human development, necessitating efforts to stabilize the political environment to promote human well-being and progress. This finding is in agreement with the findings of Liu, Chen & Zhang (2023), in the study on the nexus among corruption, political instability and natural resources on economic recovery in Vietnam.

Hypothesis Two

Ho: There is no statistically significant relationship between asylum seeking and good governance in Nigeria.

Ha: There is a statistically significant relationship between asylum seeking and good governance in Nigeria.

Table 4 Correlations

Source: SPSS ver.27 Outputs.

Discussion of Finding

Table 4 shows that there is a statistically significant negative relationship between asylum seeking and good governance in Nigeria, with r = -0.812 n = 100 and p value of 0.000 (p<0.05). Therefore, the study accepted the alternate hypothesis and concluded that there is a statistically significant negative relationship between asylum seeking and good governance in Nigeria. The implication is that poor governance in Nigeria drives asylum seeking, suggesting that improving governance and addressing underlying issues can reduce the number of people seeking asylum. This result is harmonious with the findings of Kosyakova & Brücker (2020), in the study on seeking asylum in Germany: Do human and social capital determine the outcome of asylum procedures?

CONCLUSION

The study concluded that immigration has a detrimental effect on the economic development of Nigeria, specifically among the youth in Awka, Anambra State, suggesting that policies addressing immigration and economic growth are needed.

RECOMMENDATIONS

The study recommends that:

1. The Nigerian government needs to prioritize stabilizing the political environment to foster human development and well-being of its citizens.
2. Nigeria needs to improve its governance and address the underlying factors driving asylum seeking, such as corruption, insecurity, and human rights violations, to reduce the number of people seeking asylum.

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