Canada has announced plans to attract skilled healthcare and social service professionals from Nigeria and other countries to help address labour shortages within its healthcare system.
The country’s Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada said it is seeking qualified professionals, including nurse practitioners, dentists, pharmacists, psychologists and social workers, as part of its efforts to strengthen the healthcare workforce.
The announcement forms part of Canada’s broader immigration strategy aimed at attracting highly skilled workers with the qualifications and experience required in sectors facing critical labour shortages.
According to the Canadian immigration authorities, qualified foreign professionals with the required training, credentials and work experience can explore available immigration pathways to live and work in the country.
The healthcare and social services sector is among several priority areas identified by Canada for skilled-worker recruitment.
Other priority sectors include science, technology, engineering and mathematics, skilled trades, defence, cybersecurity, critical minerals and education.
Canada said the recruitment drive is designed to respond to changing economic needs and emerging industries while ensuring that employers have access to skilled professionals.
For Nigerian professionals, the announcement could provide opportunities for those seeking to build careers in Canada, particularly individuals whose qualifications and professional experience correspond with Canada’s labour-market requirements.
However, interested professionals will still need to satisfy the relevant immigration, professional licensing and credential-recognition requirements before they can practise their professions in Canada.
Canada’s Express Entry system remains one of its principal immigration routes for skilled workers. The country’s 2026 immigration categories include healthcare and social services, with nurse practitioners, dentists, pharmacists and psychologists among the occupations identified for category-based selection. (Canada)
The Canadian government has also emphasised the importance of attracting international talent as the country seeks to address labour shortages and strengthen its workforce.
Immigration authorities said successful newcomers can benefit from career opportunities, education and training, as well as access to communities and services designed to support immigrants and their families.
The latest recruitment announcement is expected to attract interest from qualified Nigerian healthcare professionals considering opportunities abroad.
Professionals interested in the programme are, however, advised to rely on official Canadian immigration information and verify the specific requirements for their occupation before beginning an application.
The announcement does not mean that every applicant will automatically qualify for employment or permanent residence. Eligibility will depend on factors including professional credentials, work experience, language ability and the applicable immigration pathway.
Canada’s latest move further highlights the increasing global competition for skilled healthcare professionals as countries seek to strengthen their health systems and fill critical workforce gaps.
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