The top 5 sectors powering the Nigerian diaspora in Turkey

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.…sectors include cargo and international shipping, textiles, teaching, etc

After the financial crisis in 2001, Turkey enjoyed five years of rapid growth and saw a major lift in its infrastructure and economy. The change saw a massive influx of people into the country across the globe.

The country leveraged its ultra-modern aviation sector and strategic geolocation to attract a diverse international workforce.

Among those making a significant mark is the growing Nigerian community.
While once seen primarily as a transit point, cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Antalya have become permanent hubs for Nigerian entrepreneurs and professionals.

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“As Lagos is to Nigeria, so Istanbul is to Turkey,” explains Segun Aremu, a Turkey-based content creator.

“We have a large chunk of Nigerians living in the commercial capital, driving the economy.”

Here are the top five sectors where Nigerians are currently finding success in the Republic of Türkiye.

Cargo and international shipping
The backbone of the Nigerian-Turkish relationship is trade. With daily flights from Lagos and Abuja to Istanbul, the demand for logistics is immense.

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“We have lots of Nigerians who are actively in this sector,” says Aremu. “It is a sector that brings a lot of income to the Turkish economy. We have large chunks of shipment leaving Turkish ports almost on a daily basis, heading straight down to regions across Africa and Nigeria.”

The textile and household trade
Turkish craftsmanship in garments and furniture has become a household name in Nigeria. Enterprising Nigerians in Istanbul have carved out a niche as middlemen and wholesalers.

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In this category, Nigerians are either involved in the fashion business, that is, in the buying and selling of high-quality Turkish clothes, shoes, bags, and gold, or the interior design business, which is exporting furniture, curtains, and office equipment.

Aremu advises: “If you are into such business, consider Turkey, as you will get value for your money.”

Education and English language teaching
Teaching remains the most accessible “formal” occupation for Nigerians with the right credentials. While the sector faced challenges during the pandemic, it remains a vital path for professionals.

“Teaching is the only formal occupation that is readily available to Nigerians living here,” Aremu notes. “If you have the credentials needed by these secondary schools or colleges, you stand a chance to be gainfully employed… mainly to teach English or social and science courses.”

Service industries: Beauty, groceries, and catering
In districts such as Esenyurt and Fatih, a “Little Nigeria” has blossomed. This has given rise to essential service businesses that cater to the diaspora’s unique needs.

These are specialist supermarkets which sell imported goods like palm oil and Nigerian soaps at a premium.

Another is in the culinary business, such as restaurants and home-delivery catering services, which are thriving. “If you love cooking and you are a good chef, you stand a chance to make some cool cash in this field,” Aremu suggests.

Educational and residency consultancy
With many seeking higher education in Turkish universities, a new class of education agents has emerged. These consultants act as bridges between Turkish institutions and African students.

They are involved in education recruitment, where they assist students with university placements and scholarships.

Another service they offer is helping newcomers navigate the complexities of work permits, residence permits, and health insurance.

The ‘Japa’ alternative
For many, Turkey may offer an alternative tothe United Kingdom, the United States, Europe or Canada, given the now strict immigration policies of these countries.

As the Nigerian community grows, these five sectors continue to provide the economic foundation for thousands of expats.