Nigeria Unemployment Rate — 2026 Data, Trend & Forecast
Nigeria's unemployment rate was 3.89% in December 2025, up from 3.45% the previous year. A year earlier it stood at 3.45%.
Nigeria's unemployment rate stands at 3.89% as of December 2025. Over the latest readings, the unemployment rate has moved within a band of 3.07% to 4.45%. The most recent figure of 3.89% is up from 3.45% a year earlier, and is 0.43% higher than a year ago.
The trend
Among the 227 economies tracked on this platform, Nigeria ranks #152 on unemployment rate by latest value. It rose from 3.45% in the previous year, and compares with a year-earlier 3.45%.
What's driving it
Joblessness tracks the business cycle, labour-force participation and structural shifts in industry, and tends to lag changes in output.
Recent readings
| Period | Unemployment rate |
|---|---|
| Dec 2025 | 3.89% |
| Dec 2024 | 3.45% |
| Dec 2023 | 3.07% |
| Dec 2022 | 3.83% |
| Dec 2019 | 4.45% |
| Dec 2013 | 3.71% |
| Dec 2011 | 3.77% |
| Dec 1986 | 3.94% |
Data: Source: ILOSTAT, International Labour Organization (CC BY 4.0). Figures carry an effective date; confirm with the source before relying on them.
Frequently asked questions
What Is the Unemployment Rate in Nigeria in 2026?
Nigeria's unemployment rate was 3.89% in December 2025, up from 3.45% the previous year. A year earlier it stood at 3.45%.
Is the unemployment rate rising or falling in Nigeria?
It rose in the latest reading — 3.89% in December 2025 versus 3.45% a year earlier. Year on year it is higher.
What is unemployment rate?
It measures the share of the labour force that is without work but actively seeking a job.