Browsing by Author "Emmanuella Opeyemi ADESANYA"

Now showing 1 - 1 of 1
  • No Thumbnail Available
    Item
    Comparative Study of Migration Governance in Nigeria and South Africa (2014-2024)
    (Lead City University, Ibadan, 2025-12) Emmanuella Opeyemi ADESANYA
    This study provides a comparative analysis of migration policies in Nigeria and South Africa between 2014 and 2024. The background of this study comes from the rising movement of people across Africa. Many people leaving their countries because of low income, insecurity, poor living conditions and the search for better opportunities. Nigeria, primarily a migrant- sending country, has struggled with the emigration of highly skilled professionals, particularly in the health and education sectors. Its policy responses, centered on diaspora engagement and repatriation incentives, have delivered limited results due to weak reintegration mechanisms, poor institutional coordination, and socioeconomic instability. Conversely, South Africa, one of the continent’s leading migrant-receiving states, faces complex dynamics including large inflows of both skilled and irregular migrants, compounded by xenophobia, restrictive immigration laws, and inconsistent implementation of migration policies. Using a qualitative methodology, the study draws on legal instruments, national legislation, and reports from organisations such as the African Union (AU), Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Southern African Development Community (SADC), and the International Organization for Migration (IOM). This study is anchored on the Push–Pull, World Systems, and New Economics of Labour Migration (NELM) theories. Findings show that both countries’ migration systems work best when their national policies are in line with regional and continental goals. Effective migration management in both countries depends on strong institutions, clear laws, and the political will to reduce brain drain and irregular migration. The study contributes to knowledge by situating the migration experiences of Nigeria and South Africa within broader Pan-African discourses, offering insights into policy gaps, best practices, and strategies for sustainable human-capital retention. Recommendations emphasize strengthening reintegration frameworks, combating xenophobia and enhancing regional cooperation. Keywords: Migration Governance, Brain Drain, Repatriation Policies, Regular Migration Word count: 277