Nigerian Community in Birmingham

Where they come from

Nigeria is Africa's most populous country, with more than two hundred million people and hundreds of ethnic groups, including the Yoruba, Igbo and Hausa. English is the official language. Nigerians have long come to Britain to study, and more recently as doctors, nurses and professionals.

The community in numbers

At the 2021 Census, out of a city population of 1,144,919, 5,830 Birmingham residents described their ethnic group as Nigerian; and 5,946 people living in the city had been born in Nigeria.

Working for Birmingham

Nigerian doctors and nurses are a vital part of the NHS in Birmingham, and Nigerian students are among the largest international groups at the city's universities. Nigerian professionals work in finance, law, IT, engineering and business, and Nigerian-owned shops, restaurants and firms are found across the city.

Healthcare, education and the skilled trades are three of the pillars of the city's economy. The NHS is one of Birmingham's biggest employers, its universities teach tens of thousands of students, and there is steady demand for electricians, plumbers, carpenters, decorators and handymen in every neighbourhood, alongside business, transport, hospitality, retail and the city's growing digital and creative industries. People from every background keep these sectors running, and the Nigerian community shares in that effort.

Culture and community life

Nigerian churches are among the liveliest in Birmingham, and faith is at the heart of community life. Jollof rice, suya and egusi soup are family favourites, Afrobeats and Nollywood films have a huge following, and Independence Day on 1 October is celebrated with colour and pride.

For anyone who wants to learn more, the best introduction is the simplest one: say hello. Birmingham's communities are at their best when they meet, share food and learn from one another, and the Nigerian community is a warm part of that everyday exchange.