Calgary, Canada - A new documentary feature by Steven Ndukwu, "Inside Benin City’s Streets," has pivoted its lens to the Great White North, providing a nuanced examination of the African immigrant experience in Canada. Through a journey spanning from Calgary to Toronto, the report highlights a wave of Nigerian and Ghanaian entrepreneurs who are redefining success, even as they navigate a landscape of high inflation and "professional displacement." Canada remains a premier destination for African migrants, with foreign-born residents now comprising approximately 23% of the total population—the highest ratio among G7 nations. However, the report warns that the "Canadian Dream" often comes with a steep entry price. Many immigrants arrive with advanced degrees only to find themselves working odd jobs to survive. Charles Osuji, a Nigerian immigrant who now owns the largest Black-owned law firm in Canada, reflected on his early days performing manual labor despite his legal qualifications, emphasizing that grit is the true currency of the diaspora.
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The investigation identifies Calgary as a rising "city of opportunity" for those fleeing the extreme costs of Vancouver and Toronto. With a robust oil and gas sector and a lower cost of living, Calgary has become a sanctuary for a growing African community. Conversely, Toronto is depicted as a city of stark contrasts; while nearly half its population is foreign-born, the housing market has reached an affordability ceiling. Ghanaian real estate mogul Anthony showcased downtown luxury units valued at $2.3 million, while fellow entrepreneur Isaac Olowolafe highlighted a $15 million hotel project aimed at addressing the city’s desperate need for affordable housing. Beyond the corporate world, the documentary explores the "soft power" of African culture in Canada. Victor Ugwuoke of Afrobeat Kitchen discussed the strategic "adaptation" of Nigerian cuisine to gain global acceptance, while King Dee, owner of the renowned nightclub Deja Vu, spoke on the high regulatory hurdles and operational costs of maintaining a cultural hub in Toronto. The report concludes with a sobering reality check for prospective immigrants: the job market is increasingly selective. Current data for 2026 suggests that while Canada has stabilized its permanent resident targets at 380,000 annually, the path is becoming more competitive. Experts in the video advise newcomers to prioritize permanent residency over student pathways to avoid the "survival job" trap and urge them not to "over-glamorize" the transition, noting that the harsh winters and high costs have led some to return to their home countries.
Steven Ndukwu
