Tag: Canada

  • China urges Canada to break from U.S. influence

    China urges Canada to break from U.S. influence

    • Carney visits Beijing

    As Canadian leader Mark Carney arrives in China yesterday, his hosts see an opportunity to peel the longtime U.S. ally away from their rival, at least a bit.

    China’s state media is calling on the Canadian government to set a foreign policy path independent of the United States — what it calls “strategic autonomy.”

    Canada has long been one of America’s closest allies, geographically and otherwise. But Beijing is hoping that President Donald Trump’s economic aggression — and, now, military action — against other countries will erode that longstanding relationship.

    The government bristled at former U.S. President Joe Biden’s efforts to strengthen relations with Europe, Australia, India, Canada and others to confront China. Now it sees an opportunity to try to loosen those ties, though it remains cautious about how far that will go.

    Read Also: Tinubu targets $30b green finance toboost electricity access

    Carney, for his part, has focused on trade, describing the trip to China as part of a move to forge new partnerships around the world to end Canada’s economic reliance on the American market. Trump has hit Canada with tariffs on its exports to the United States and suggested the vast, resource-rich country could become America’s 51st state.

    The Canadian prime minister, who took office last year, is seeking to revive a relationship with China that was marked with acrimony for more than six years under his predecessor, Justin Trudeau.

    The downturn in relations started with the arrest of a Chinese tech executive in late 2018 at America’s request and was fueled more recently by the Trudeau government’s decision in 2024 to follow Biden’s lead in imposing a 100% tariff on Chinese-made electric vehicles. China has retaliated for both that and a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum with its own tariffs on Canadian exports including canola, seafood and pork.

    “If the Canadian side reflects on the root causes of the setbacks in bilateral relations over the past few years — the previous Justin Trudeau government’s policies to contain China in lockstep with the United States — it will realize that it can avoid the same outcome by upholding its strategic autonomy in handling China-related issues,” the state-owned China Daily newspaper wrote in an editorial this week.

    “If Ottawa still chooses to subject its China policy to the will of Washington again in the future, it will only render its previous efforts to mend ties with Beijing in vain,” the English-language paper warned.

    The government-run Global Times said: “Perhaps it was the heavy price paid for blindly following the U.S. in imposing high tariffs on China that awakened Ottawa’s sense of strategic autonomy.”

    Canadian officials have said they expect Carney’s trip to produce progress on trade but not a definitive elimination of any tariffs.

    Chinese experts said the two countries could find common ground over the U.S. military intervention in oil-rich Venezuela that forcibly brought its president to New York to face charges and Trump’s subsequent statements that Greenland, a Danish territory, should come under U.S. control.

    “We can also see Canada’s current state of considerable unease towards the U.S.,” said Cui Shoujun, a foreign policy and Latin America expert at Renmin University of China. “If the U.S. can claim Greenland, might it then lay claim to Canada?”

    He also predicted that Trump’s move against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro would strengthen the strategic autonomy of Latin American countries to resist possible American interference in their affairs.

    But China remains realistic about how far countries such as Canada could swing in its direction, given their fears of China’s growing economic and military clout as well as their deep historical and cultural ties with the United States. They also have major differences with China over its booming exports and the threat they pose to employment in their countries, as well as over human rights and Taiwan.

    Zhu Feng, the dean of the School of International Studies at Nanjing University, cautioned against overestimating the importance of Carney’s visit to China, “because Canada is not only a neighbor of the United States but also an ally.”

    Trump’s pressure on traditional U.S. partners may open up some space for China to expand relations with them, but American allies will need to balance that with their continuing dependence on U.S. economic and military strength. They may be able to reduce that dependence somewhat in the short term — but it’s unlikely they will be to eliminate it for the foreseeable future.

  • 974 Nigerians await deportation from Canada

    974 Nigerians await deportation from Canada

     No fewer than 974 Nigerians are awaiting deportation in Canada, it was learnt yesterday.

    They are said to be currently in the “removal-in-progress” queue, awaiting deportation.

    The Canadian authorities deported 366 Nigerians between January and October 2025.

    About 83% of those deported are failed refugee claimants, while criminality accounts for roughly 4%. Under Canadian law, anyone with an enforceable removal order must be deported.

    Outside the United Kingdom and the United States, Canada remains a major destination for Nigerians, with over 71,000 Nigerians gaining citizenship between 2005 and 2024, and thousands more arriving yearly as students, workers, and permanent residents.

    Read Also: Banditry, terrorism to end soon in Nigeria – Senator Adeola

    Data from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) showed that Nigeria is the only African country on the list of 10 nationalities deported in 2025 occupying the ninth position.

    Canada is carrying out an aggressive nationwide crackdown. Canada now deports nearly 400 people weekly, removing 18,048 foreign nationals in the 2024–2025 fiscal year at a cost of about $78 million.

    Authorities say the push is aimed at tightening immigration targets and easing pressure on housing, jobs, and border security, backing the effort with an extra $30.5 million for removals and $1.3 billion for border enforcement.

    Immigration lawyers warn deportations could rise further if Bill C-12 is passed, potentially imposing permanent bans on some refugee claims.

  • 974 Nigerians awaits deportation from Canada

    974 Nigerians awaits deportation from Canada

    • …366 deported in 10months in 2025

    No fewer than 974 Nigerians are awaiting deportation in Canada, it was learnt.

    They are said to be currently in the “removal-in-progress” queue, awaiting deportation.

    The Canadian authorities deported 366 Nigerians between January and October 2025.

    About 83% of those deported are failed refugee claimants, while criminality accounts for roughly 4%. Under Canadian law, anyone with an enforceable removal order must be deported.

    Outside the United Kingdom and the United States, Canada remains a major destination for Nigerians, with over 71,000 Nigerians gaining citizenship between 2005 and 2024, and thousands more arriving yearly as students, workers, and permanent residents.

    Data from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), showed that Nigeria is the only African country on the list of 10 nationalities deported in 2025 occupying the ninth position.

     It also placed fifth among nationalities awaiting removal.

    Read Also: Meilleur casino en ligne Canada – Notre avis sur 15 casinos en ligne fiables

    The 2025 figure marks a sharp increase after Nigeria dropped out of the top 10 in 2023 and 2024, and represents an 8% increase over 2019.

    Canada is carrying out an aggressive nationwide crackdown. Canada now deports nearly 400 people weekly, removing 18,048 foreign nationals in the 2024–2025 fiscal year at a cost of about $78 million.

    Authorities say the push is aimed at tightening immigration targets and easing pressure on housing, jobs, and border security, backing the effort with an extra $30.5 million for removals and $1.3 billion for border enforcement.

    Immigration lawyers warn deportations could rise further if Bill C-12 is passed, potentially imposing permanent bans on some refugee claims.

  • 974 Nigerians await deportation in Canada

    974 Nigerians await deportation in Canada

    …366 deported in 10months in 2025

    No fewer than 974 Nigerians are currently awaiting deportation in Canada, according to available data.

    They are listed in the country’s “removal-in-progress” queue, indicating that deportation processes have commenced but are yet to be concluded.

    Canadian authorities deported 366 Nigerians between January and October 2025. Of this number, about 83 per cent were failed refugee claimants, while criminality accounted for roughly four per cent. Under Canadian law, individuals issued with enforceable removal orders are required to leave the country.

    Outside the United Kingdom and the United States, Canada remains a major destination for Nigerians. Records show that more than 71,000 Nigerians acquired Canadian citizenship between 2005 and 2024, with thousands more arriving annually as students, workers and permanent residents.

    Data from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) indicate that Nigeria is the only African country among the top 10 nationalities deported in 2025, ranking ninth. Nigeria also placed fifth among nationalities currently awaiting removal.

    Read Also: Eneduwa unveils Nigeria/Canada legal exchange centre to boost cross-border cooperation

    The 2025 figures represent a sharp increase, following Nigeria’s absence from the top 10 deportation list in 2023 and 2024. The data also reflect an eight per cent rise compared with 2019.

    Canada is currently implementing an aggressive nationwide enforcement drive, deporting nearly 400 individuals weekly. In the 2024–2025 fiscal year alone, 18,048 foreign nationals were removed at an estimated cost of about $78 million.

    Authorities say the intensified push is aimed at tightening immigration targets and easing pressure on housing, employment and border security. The effort is being supported with an additional $30.5 million allocated for removals and $1.3 billion for border enforcement.

    Meanwhile, immigration lawyers have warned that deportations could rise further if Bill C-12 is passed, a move that could impose permanent bans on certain categories of refugee claims.

  • FULL LIST: Countries with friendly visa schemes Nigerians can consider aside US, UK, Canada

    FULL LIST: Countries with friendly visa schemes Nigerians can consider aside US, UK, Canada

    For many Nigerians, the pursuit of japa-seeking greener pastures abroad- has long centered on the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada. However, with visa rejection rates on the rise and relocation costs reaching new heights, a growing number of hopeful migrants are beginning to shift their focus beyond these traditional destinations.

    In response, several countries are quietly emerging as attractive alternatives, offering simplified visa processes, lower living expenses, and clearer pathways to residency. Migration experts say these options are drawing increased interest from Nigerians eager to explore opportunities outside the so-called “big three.”

    Here are three exciting options you can try out

    1. Germany – Work and Student-Friendly Pathways

    Germany has become one of the hottest destinations for Nigerians seeking better opportunities. Its Job Seeker Visa allows qualified professionals to move first and look for work for up to six months. For students, tuition fees are relatively low compared to other Western countries, and the post-study work visa gives ample time to secure a job. The demand for skilled workers in sectors like IT, engineering, and healthcare makes Germany a practical “Japa” option.

    Read Also: Beyond the UK, US, and Canada: Three countries with simplified visa routes

    2. Portugal – Golden Visa and Startup Routes

    Portugal has carved a niche as one of Europe’s easiest entry points. Through its D7 Visa (for passive income earners or remote workers) and Golden Visa (for investors), it offers multiple flexible residency routes. The cost of living is lower than most Western European nations, and after five years of residency, one can apply for citizenship, making it a long-term escape plan for those serious about relocation.

    3. Australia – Points-Based Skilled Migration

    Australia runs a points-based immigration system that often favours young, skilled applicants. Occupations like nursing, teaching, IT, and construction are in high demand, giving Nigerians with the right qualifications a chance to secure permanent residency. Australia’s Temporary Graduate Visa makes it easy for international students to transition into the workforce after studies.

  • Anyaduba gets special recognition in Canada for projecting Nigeria’s culture, tradition

    Anyaduba gets special recognition in Canada for projecting Nigeria’s culture, tradition

    The Flavours of Nigeria Festival and its founder, Chukwuebuka Anyaduba, have received special recognition certificates from the government of Ontario. 

    The honour was presented by Hon. Nina Tangri, Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) for Mississauga–Streetsville and Associate Minister of Small Business.

    The award acknowledges the Festival’s role in celebrating Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and its global impact through art, culture, food, music, and enterprise.

    In his acceptance remarks, Anyaduba expressed gratitude to the organising team and his partner, Akin Oduntan, noting that the recognition reflects a collective effort.

    Read Also: Fola David celebrated in Canada with awards, live painting

    “This recognition is not just for me, but for the whole organising team, particularly my Partner Mr Akin Oduntan and everyone who believes in the power of culture to connect people and create opportunities. The Flavours of Nigeria Festival is a bridge between nations, fostering collaboration, celebrating diversity, and inspiring meaningful change. I am deeply grateful to the Government of Ontario and Hon. Nina Tangri for this acknowledgment,” he said.

    Now an annual landmark in Canada, the Flavours of Nigeria Festival promotes cultural diplomacy, community engagement, and cross-border enterprise, while spotlighting Nigeria’s vibrant traditions. 

    The event is organised by IIASDG & Glogold Consulting, with support from the City of Brampton.

  • Canada and Nigeria’s wayward children

    Canada and Nigeria’s wayward children

    In a country where many would not hesitate to sell their country for a morsel of bread, the case of Nigeria’s Douglas Egharevba, whose asylum petition was rejected by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), would ordinarily have numbered among the unlucky dip from the pool of those known to have filed baseless claims of ‘persecution’ and ‘primitive cultural practices’ against our beloved country. 

    However, with the Federal Court in Canada upholding an earlier decision of Canadian Immigration Appeal Division (IAD), which had earlier on denied him asylum, our dear country seems to have arrived at the point where the harvest of daily indiscretions by errant nationals have finally berthed in kind of judicial monstrosity that would not have been associated with so-called developed countries at normal times.

    I refer here to the ratio decidendi advanced by the court for the decision.

    First, the court found issue with Egharevba’s membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Peoples Congress (APC) (sic). Second, it agreed with the IAD that the PDP in particular, engaged in conduct amounting to terrorism and subversion of democratic institutions. And third, that the PDP were perpetrators of political violence, intimidation, and subversion and were protected being the governing party in power during the elections.

    The PDP, it also averred, conducted unlawful acts such as ballot-stuffing, ballot box snatching, intimidation, violence, and murder of opposition supporters and candidates in the elections, and that the party had knowledge of the crimes committed by members and supporters but apparently did nothing to discipline its members or discourage violent and subversive practices, noting that the use of political violence was a long-standing feature of the PDP!

    And finally, that the rank and file of the PDP, to which the petitioner had admitted to its membership, was vicariously liable for the violence and subversion of Nigeria’s process, thus rendering the applicant inadmissible in Canada!

    Nigerians, understandably have been fulminating against this novelty of a trial under which a political party that was not even remotely a nominal party was found guilty of terrorism and subversion and those deemed to have associated with it condemned to suffer its dire consequences, and this in immigration proceedings!

    “The parents have eaten sour grapes, and the children’s teeth are set on edge”; so says the holy writ.

    Like many of our compatriots, our dear national may have in the moment of a desperate struggle escape Nigeria’s Titanic thought little of the dire consequences of munching sour grapes. Now, his teeth and perhaps those of the rest of us are condemned to the edge!

    For a story that began nearly eight years ago, the judgment must have come as dramatic, unwanted, if not entirely unimaginable, twist.

    It began in September 2017, when our man, Douglas Egharevba, filed an inland refugee claim. The Background Declaration Form which he completed had stated that he was a member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) from December 1999 until December 2007. He claimed to have ported, thereafter to the All People’s Congress [APC] in December 2007 and remained in the party till May 2017.

    (Note that the APC was never at any time known as All People’s Congress but All Progressives Congress; in any case, the party was not formed in 2007 when the applicant was said to have joined but in 2013). 

    Anyway, he was referred to a Canadian Border Services Agency [CBSA] to determine his admissibility to Canada. A year later, in September 2018, he would make his appearance before a CBSA officer. Although the official would in January 2019, declare him inadmissible to Canada on the grounds of being a member of PDP, an organization which in the opinion of the immigration official, had engaged in ‘acts of subversion against a democratic government, institution, or process and engaged in terrorism, based on his earlier affirmation of membership of the PDP’, the Immigration Division [ID] would, nonetheless determine that the applicant, Egharevba, was not subject to inadmissibility under the relevant provisions of the Canadian law.

    That reprieve turned out to be temporary. Canada’s Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness immediately took the matter to the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD). In the end, the ID decision was overturned.

    Next, Egharevba turned to the court for judicial review. Well, it came on June 17, when Canada’s Justice Phuong T.V. Ngo affirmed the judgment of the (IAD). Notably, the judge also found Egharevba’s membership of the PDP alone as sufficient to make him inadmissible to Canada under paragraph 34(1)(f) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) – in what could arguably be the most expansive, if not egregious rendition of the doctrine of vicarious responsibility in modern jurisprudence. 

    Read Also: Why Nigerians troop to IBB’s house by ex-President Jonathan

    Like most Nigerians, I join in the outrage on the simple ground that the law needed not be an ass as the Canadian court would have us accept. And just like one commentator noted, the decision wasn’t just an immigration one; it was in every sense a political one, very pregnant, with the consequences so dire that the Nigerian government will do good to pay attention. Yet, to the extent that the judgment purports to put the entire political system to trial, the pronouncements, with all due respect, smacks of a jurisdictional overreach.

    The other equally troubling part of the judgment is the imputation of guilt by mere association and this in the absence of any specific charge, particularly against the applicant in the aftermath of the court already deeming the PDP’s sins as treasonable and so, unforgiveable. It explains why the Canadian court would cite a specious interpretation of ‘terrorism’ and ‘violence’ to validate what could only be a strange decision. That is absolutely unnecessary. Surely, the Canadians can make their immigration decisions without pulling the roofs over the heads on everyone or as in this particular case, (mis)appropriating the frustrations of the citizens with the electoral process for purposes that are not entirely altruistic. It is neither helpful nor right.

    For while the Nigeria’s electoral system is certainly far from perfect, its greatest critics are by far Nigerians themselves.

    This takes us to the deeper question of how Nigerians, caught in the vortex of immigration challenges, would not hesitate to throw their country under the bus. Surely, the Egharevba story is only one out of many. As it is, the real story behind the movement from the PDP to APC only to end up as fodder for an asylum bid in faraway Canada will most likely remain untold. So it is for other countless asylum applicants known to have sought asylum for variety of reasons ranging from female genital mutilation (circumcision) even where the cultural practice no longer exist, to the Boko Haram insurgency even when those filing the claims have never in their lives crossed to the other side of River Niger! In all of these, the end is supposed to justify the means.

     Thanks to the global strongman, Donald J. Trump, assumptions about immigration are fast-changing as the myths that have sustained them have been whittling. Across the globe, things are no longer at ease. For while the grass may be greener outside, the pathway to that other side has continued to narrow.

    For the Canadian court, the terrorism tag on the PDP goes beyond a ratio decidendi of convenience; more like a symbolic invitation for Nigerians to take note. 

  • Canada’s dangerous redefinition of Nigeria’s democracy

    Canada’s dangerous redefinition of Nigeria’s democracy

    • By Olufemi Soneye

    Sir: When a Canadian federal court recently declared Nigeria’s two largest political parties, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as terrorist organizations under Canadian law, it wasn’t just an immigration decision. It was a political earthquake with consequences that could reverberate far beyond Canada’s borders.

    This decision, made during an asylum case involving Nigerian politician Douglas Egharevba, was based solely on his past membership in these parties. No evidence was presented to show his personal involvement in violence or terrorism. Yet, under Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, affiliation alone with a designated terrorist group is enough to bar entry.

    The implications are deeply troubling. Legally, the ruling sets a precedent that political affiliation, no matter how commonplace or mainstream can be equated with terrorism. Diplomatically, it risks souring Canada-Nigeria relations by painting the country’s core democratic institutions with the same brush as extremist groups.

    For Nigerians abroad, especially those who have ever held a party membership card, it signals heightened scrutiny, denied visas, and rejected asylum claims not only in Canada but potentially in other Western democracies that may follow suit.

    Even more alarming is what this means for democracy. Labelling established political parties as terrorist organizations undermines their legitimacy at home and abroad. It blurs the vital line between dissent and danger, between governance and extremism. Once such a label is applied, it can be wielded, domestically or internationally as a tool to silence opposition, suppress political participation, and erode civil liberties.

    Terrorism is a grave charge. To weaponise it against political organizations that have governed a democracy for decades is to dilute the meaning of the term and cheapen the fight against genuine extremists. It also blurs the essential boundary between political disagreement and criminal threat, a boundary that safeguards democratic life.

    Read Also: Tambuwal: I remain resolute, joining forces to reposition Nigeria

    Canada has long been a champion of democratic values abroad. This ruling contradicts that legacy. It must be revisited, challenged, and corrected, not just for Nigeria’s sake, but for the integrity of democratic politics everywhere. If this precedent stands, no political party, in any country, is safe from being redefined into illegitimacy by a foreign court.

    One immediate consequence of the Canadian ruling is that law-abiding Nigerian youths, both at home and across the diaspora could be branded “terrorist” solely for past or present affiliation with the APC or PDP. I know for a fact that the immigration laws of the US and Canada allow inadmissibility based on membership in a group deemed terrorist; this creates a real risk of collateral stigma for young people whose involvement was purely civic. The prospect of visa denials, asylum rejections, or routine travel scrutiny will chill legitimate political participation among youths who are the lifeblood of party renewal. Far from strengthening democracy, such deterrence erodes pluralism by pushing emerging voices out of mainstream politics.

    The world should take note: when courts begin deciding which foreign political parties are “terrorists,” the erosion of democracy is no longer theoretical, it has begun.

    This is not merely Canada’s internal immigration matter. It’s a global warning. If the definition of terrorism can be stretched to encompass mainstream political organizations in one of Africa’s largest democracies, then no political movement anywhere is safe from being redefined into illegitimacy.

    Canada’s decision is not just about Douglas Egharevba, it’s about the dangerous precedent it sets. And if democratic nations don’t push back on this kind of overreach, they may one day find their own politics on trial in a foreign court.

    •Olufemi Soneye,

    Abuja

  • Best $1 Deposit Casino Sites in Canada

    Best $1 Deposit Casino Sites in Canada

    Players gambling on a budget, or those who don’t want to spend a lot at online casinos, are often in search of low deposit sites. In this guide, we will explore the best $1 deposit casino bonus Canada offers available on the market. Many of these platforms also feature popular table games like Baccarat, perfect for low-stakes players. If you are after real wins at actual casinos without the need to make major investments, this post is for you. Let’s see what you can get for just one dollar online these days.

    Top 1$ Deposit Casino Sites for Canadians

    Let’s break down some of your best options where you can start gambling with as little as one Canadian dollar. We’ll take a closer look at the bonus offered, as well as the wagering requirements. Note that, for this type of lucrative bonuses, the wagering terms are usually higher than for, let’s say, matched casino bonuses.

    Casino$1 Deposit BonusWagering requirements
    Jackpot City80 chances to win200x
    Spin Casino100 free spins70x
    7Bit25 free spins45x
    Zodiac80 chances to win200x
    Katsubet20 free spins50x
    Ruby Fortune$5 bonus70x
    Casino Classic40 chances to win200x
    Lucky Nugget$3 match bonus75x
    Royal Vegas30 free spins75x

     

    What is a $1 Deposit Casino Canada?

    A $1 deposit casino bonus in Canada allows players to gamble in real money games by spending a single Canadian dollar. This is the lowest entry point you can find at a casino aside from the no deposit bonuses, which are rare and often reserved for new players only. Unlike most casinos that ask for a minimum deposit of $10, $20, or more, the casinos we are discussing here require a much smaller investment.

    Why should you try a $1 deposit casino? There are a few reasons to try this:

    • It is low-risk. You can only lose $1 if things don’t go your way.
    • This is a great way to test a casino without a commitment.
    • You can claim a 1 dollar deposit bonus at selected sites and use it to play real games.
    • This is perfect for casual players or anyone playing on a budget

    These casinos are especially welcoming to new gamblers. Trying out a $1 deposit casino for new player is an easy way to get started in the thrilling world of online slots and table games. Though in most cases, you can only use such small deposits on selected slots.

    The Top 3 1$ Deposit Bonus Casino Sites

    Let’s say that you are searching for the very best casinos that offer players perks for a single dollar. This is where you can start. After careful research, we selected three top sites that deliver value, fun games, and real rewards all at the same time.

    1.   JackpotCity

    JackpotCity gives players 80 chances to win on Mega Moolah, one of the top slots worldwide, for just $1. That means that you’d be buying 80 spins for your dollar, with a real jackpot potential. This 1$ deposit bonus casino Canada offer requires you to wager winnings 200x before you make a withdrawal. It’s an offer solely available to new players who have just made an account at the best payout online casino.

    2.   7Bit

    7Bit Casino is known for its crypto-friendly payments, fast withdrawals, and solid regular bonuses. Their $1 offer includes 25 free spins on a selected slot. This specific casino 1$ bonus comes with 45x wagering and a 7-day expiry. The wagering terms are quite ideal for such a lucrative bonus, and you don’t need a promo code to claim it. The winnings are capped at $50.

    3.   Spin 

    The third top choice is Spin Casino, which offers 100 free spins for a deposit of $1, available to use on specific slot machines. There were some mentions of a casino deposit $1 get $20 offer online, though we couldn’t find such an official offer on the casino site. Still, you do get a large volume of spins. The bonus terms require 70x wagering and are valid for 7 days.

    How We Pick the Best 1 Dollar Deposit Casino Online

    When we put together our list of top casinos, we looked beyond the option to deposit a dollar and gamble or claim a bonus. Our main focus was on quality, casino fairness, and of course, security for players. This is the criteria we used to rank the casinos:

    • Licensing: Only casinos licensed by trusted bodies like the MGA, UKGC, or Kahnawake got into our list.
    • Reputation: We checked real user reviews and tested the customer support at the casinos.
    • Bonuses: We don’t just look for flashy offers. Instead, we look at the specific bonus terms and the rewards you get for a $1 deposit.
    • Payment methods: Ideally, you are looking for casinos with versatile, secure, and most importantly, fast payment options free of fees.
    • Games: The top-ranked casinos all offer high-quality games from trusted developers, preferably in all categories, including slots, table games, card games, and live dealer titles.

    So, if a casino offers a deposit 1$ casino bonus but locks your winnings behind impossible rules or requirements, it won’t make our list.

    Types of Bonuses You Can Find at $1 Casinos

    Even for one Canadian dollar, you now have options for gambling at online casinos. In the past, casinos were reserved for the wealthy, requiring a fortune just to get in and start gambling. Today, casinos compete fiercely to get your attention, which gives you the chance to benefit from their generous offers. Let’s see what types of bonuses you can find at these casinos.

    Match Bonus

    A match bonus gives you a bonus based on your deposit. If you deposit $1, though, the match would be a dollar or two, depending on the offer, which is not a lot. If you deposit significantly more, you can get a lot more in bonuses, sometimes even thousands of dollars. These bonuses can offer you a 50%, 100%, 200% match, and so on.

    Free Spins

    Free spins are the most common offer you’ll find at casinos, and it is the most common type of casino bonus 1$. This is because slot machines can give you more options to win. With a dollar, you can spin the reels several times, even more if it’s with a bonus. You deposit a dollar and get 10, 20, or even 100 free spins on a selected slot machine.

    No Deposit Bonuses

    While rare, some new $1 deposit casinos will throw in a no deposit reward to convince more people to join their site. They can do this as a welcome offer to thank you for signing up or downloading their app. In many cases, the no deposit bonus will be followed by a deposit bonus, like 5 spins for signing up, followed by 50 free spins for your $1 deposit.

    Bonus Terms and Conditions at $1 Minimum Deposit Casinos

    Before you jump in and claim any bonus, no matter how attractive it might seem, you should know the rules that come with it. You should check the bonus terms and conditions page, but first, understand what all of that means. Let’s see what you should pay attention to.

    Bonus TermsMeaning
    Minimum depositYou must deposit at least $1 to qualify for the bonus. If you miss the opportunity, you might not have another chance to claim a bonus.
    Wagering RequirementsThe number of times you must play through your winnings before you can get a withdrawal at the casino.
    Restricted Casino GamesSome games won’t count toward wagering. This is common for casinos, and it usually includes live dealer games and progressive jackpots, as well as selected slots and table games.
    Max bet limitThe maximum you are allowed to bet while you are using the bonus money.
    Bonus Expiration DateHow long you have to use the bonus or free spins you are given. If you don’t finish in time, your winnings will most likely be forfeited.
    Max WinCaps your winnings from bonus play. For example, you can get $50 maximum from the free spins bonus. If you win more once you meet the wagering terms, the remaining will be forfeited.

    As you can see, bonuses like these sound lucrative, but they do come with a lot of strings attached. This is why you should always read the fine print before using your $1 deposit casino bonus Canada.

    Top Slot Machines Available at $1 Deposit Casinos

    Free spins often come tied to a specific slot, or perhaps two or three. Here are the most popular options, though it is not uncommon for casinos to give free spins on new slots, too.

    SlotRTP
    Immortal Romance96.86%
    Gonzo’s Quest96%
    Mega Moolah88.12%
    Wacky Panda95.94%
    Thunderkick II96.10%
    Book of Dead96.21%
    Avalon96.01%
    9 Masks of Fire96.24%
    Big Bass Bonanza96.71%
    Thunderstruck II96.65%

    These games are commonly selected for bonus spins because they are very popular and have a good RTP, as well as contain engaging bonus rounds.

    Casino Software Developers at $1 Deposit Casinos

    Even at budget casinos like the ones we have been discussing, you can play games from the most trusted software developers. Microgaming, NetEnt, and Play’n GO are often the stars at licensed, trusted casinos. Evolution Gaming is famous for its live dealer games, and Pragmatic Play and Yggdrasil show up with their high-volatility slot machines. These studios make the $1 deposit casino Canada real money worth your time, so you can have a lot of fun, combined with the chance to win real money.

    Payment Methods Found at 1 Dollar Deposit Casinos Canada

    A lot of people just assume that you can’t deposit such a small amount unless you are using a prepaid card. While this was the actual case in the past, where you could only use a bank card to gamble online, or had to jump through hoops to make an actual bank deposit, that’s not the case today. Of course, this depends on which casino you choose to gamble at, but at the more popular ones, you can find options like:

    • Electronic wallets

    Skrill, Neteller, and ecoPayz often support small deposits, and they also offer fast withdrawals (though these are often at least $10, $20, or $30).

    • Credit and debit cards

    Visa and MasterCard usually accept $1 deposits. Still, some banks might block gambling transactions, so you should check if you can use your card to gamble.

    • Mobile payments

    Modern methods include Interac and Apple Pay, which work at selected sites and are ideal for making small deposits.

    • Crypto

    Modern sites today accept Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies. Crypto is often tied to generous low-deposit bonuses, and while it is rare to be able to deposit $1 with crypto, you might find some low-deposit options.

    Can I Play on My Phone at a 1 Dollar Casino Canada?

    Yes. Most $1 deposit casinos are mobile-friendly. Whether you use Android or iOS, these platforms will offer you full compatibility with their games, including slots and even live dealer tables. You can even claim the bonuses or speak to the support using your mobile, or download a native app where one is available.

    Responsible Gambling at 1 Dollar Casinos

    A small deposit might sound harmless at first, but even $1 casinos require some discipline from players. It’s very easy to keep clicking “deposit” thinking that one dollar per deposit is not a lot. But, this can easily grow to a significant sum.

    If you experience troubles or are spending more than you planned, set some limits, take some breaks, and use the tools provided by the platform. A quality casino should have self-exclusion, limit tools, and other options for responsible gambling.

    The Pros and Cons of Gambling at a $1 Minimum Deposit Casino

    ProsCons
    Low-risk entry and a chance to play for realLimited bonus sizes due to the small deposit
    Excellent for beginner gamblersHigher wagering requirements for most offers
    A chance to test a casino without making a large depositMost games don’t qualify for bonus play

    Conclusion

    $1 deposit casinos give Canadian players a simple, cheap way to play at their favorite casinos online. These aren’t fake offers or gimmicks. They can offer real value and give you the chance to play exciting games, if you know how to pick them well. Whether you are after free spins, match bonuses, or simply a way to gamble on a low deposit, you can find such options at top casinos today. Just pick the casino carefully, read the bonus terms, and enjoy the ride!

    FAQ

    Where can I find the best 2 dollar deposit casinos online?

    Some Canadian casinos offer $2 minimum deposits. These are rare, but you can definitely find them online. Make sure to check the casino’s reputation and licensing before you claim the offer, though.

    Is it enough to deposit $1 to claim a welcome bonus at an online casino?

    Yes. At selected online casinos, a $1 deposit can qualify you for free spins or, in very rare cases, a match offer, though the bonus terms will vary. A free spins offer is generally better since you get more chances to play with $1.

    Is it possible to win a lot of money at casinos with a $1 minimum deposit?

    Yes. If the bonus includes free spins on jackpot slots like Mega Moolah, this might end up getting you a significant win, though this is rare. Most such bonuses limit you to smaller slots, but you can still win some cash to keep gambling with.

    Why are $1 deposit casinos so rare on the market?

    Processing micro-transactions is not very profitable for the casinos. Those who offer this do so so that they can attract more players. Still, only a few trusted brands can afford to offer low-deposit bonuses.

    Can I get free spins at a $1 deposit casino in Canada?

    Yes. In fact, most $1 bonus casinos give free spins instead of other offers to their players. This is because a match bonus can only give you an extra dollar or two, but you can get dozens, even hundreds, of free spins as a bonus.

    What would happen if I withdraw the winnings before I fulfill the wagering terms?

    You can’t really withdraw your winnings before you meet the wagering terms. You can attempt to do so, but the casino won’t allow this, and you might lose your bonus and any winnings for breaking their terms and conditions.

    If you’d rather read this in French, our casino depot 1$ version is available and tailored for Quebec gamers.

  • Home away from home: Nigerians creating Naija spirit in Canada

    Home away from home: Nigerians creating Naija spirit in Canada

    Despite being thousands of kilometers away from home across the oceans and seas, Nigerians in Winnipeg, Canada, are ensuring they stay close to home. Through the Winnipeg Naija Trade Fair, they have continued to keep the Naija flame and spirit alive, OYEBOLA OWLABI writes.

    Living outside one’s native home comes with its own challenges, especially in terms of food, dressing and other aspects of the culture. Nigerians in Canada are however staying true to their roots. In everything, they have not forgotten the hands that raised them, which gave them the resilience and boldness to be.

    This was displayed boldly at the recent Winnipeg Naija Trade Fair. It was a taste of home in all its beauty and splendour. It was a statement which resonated through the length and breadth of Winnipeg that – ‘Naija no dey carry last’.

    The people brought the real ‘Naija’ spirit to the fair. The hustle and bustle of the popular Balogun, Idumota, Tom Jones, Onitsha Main Market, among other markets in Nigeria, were in full display.

    The fair was in sections – cooked food, clothing, jewelry, raw foodstuff, and others. The food court was of course the most bubbly, from Amala, gbegiri and ewedu, to ewa agoyin, to oha, ofe onugbu, ofe akwu, to mention a few, everyone got a reminder of home. Even children were not left out; they had their own section where they had fun on the bouncing castles and others.

    The annual Winnipeg Naija Trade Fair started in 2024 and, according to the organisers, it promises to be a yearly event as an avenue to grow the Nigerian community in Winnipeg, especially small businesses.

    Deputy Premier of Manitoba and Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-term Care, Uzoma Asagwara, praised the initiative. She said: “This reminds me of the vibrant markets back home in Nigeria. It’s a slice of home here in Manitoba and a powerful way to uplift local businesses.”

    Founder of the Canada-Naija Business Hub and co-organiser of the Winnipeg Naija Trade Fair, Tolulope Adebayo, said the fair was an avenue to improve the lot of small businesses within the Nigerian community in Canada, particularly in Winnipeg.

    Adebayo, who is also the founder of Brand Palour communications, a public relations and branding firm, described the fair as a testament to the fact that Nigerians can survive anywhere and through anything, ‘and would even over-perform if given the right platform and opportunities. And that is what the Canada Naija Business Hub is out to do’.

    She said: “At the Canada Naija Business Hub, we help small businesses within the Nigerian community in Canada come together to sell and interact. We provide resources, trainings and workshops, and we expose them to great opportunities in Canada that they can benefit from.

    “This trade fair is the offshoot of our online market square where our businesses are listed. We have a community of about 1,600 members on Whatsapp and our businesses are booming. Our aim is to build wealth within the Nigerian community in Canada, so we do not leave anything to chance.

    “Having done the online version for a while, we thought to have a physical gathering where people can come together and interact beyond the online space. We want them to network, collaborate and partner for greater profits, visibility and opportunities. We also want to open the Nigerian market to the wider Canada community because Canada is a multi-cultural society, and this trade fair presents the opportunity to open our Nigerian businesses and brands to this large community where our people can enjoy greater opportunities and learn how to scale their businesses.

    “It is an annual event, with the first held in 2024. We had over 100 venders and 1,000 attendees last year. This year, we had over 100 vendors and 3,000 attendees because we started to publicise the fair in January and we are glad about the turnout. It’s a vibrant market that brings everything about the Naija spirit to life, ranging from the food, music fashion, even tech; everyone is showcasing their business.”

    The fair is expected to rake in about ten thousands of dollars, according to Adebayo. She noted that many of the vendors were already sold out before mid-day, yet people were still trooping in. “And that is a good testimony. Publicity about this fair started in January so everyone had been preparing in grand style.

    “We are also hopeful for something bigger next year and, gradually, we will expand beyond Winnipeg to other parts of Canada where we can help small businesses to thrive.

    “We also had the buy in of Corporate Canada in terms of sponsorship – Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), Rogers Communications, a foremost telecommunications company in Canada, partnered with us on this journey and we are grateful for their support,” she added.

    Founder of Nigerians in Winnipeg, Olubunmi Agbaje, also known as Diva, partnered Tolu Adebayo in organising the Winnipeg Naija Trade Fair. She expressed gladness that the fair was truly exceptional.

    She said: “This is my passion and I am happy it turned out the way it did.  It is a way to help the community. We want Nigerian vendors in the community to explore more. We want to empower them, so they can have a voice in this community. We thus came together to help and support them through trainings, webinars, teaching them to be creative about branding and everything to grow their business.

    “We are hopeful of more collaborations, exploration and visibility, and an international standard event next year. I believe in collaboration and partnership, so I am hoping that our vendors will partner other nationalities who have been doing this and begin to own shares and become co-owners of businesses.

    “We hope to connect with giant manufacturers and big businesses that can give us insights into how to make our small businesses work in Canada. That is the whole essence of this trade fair and other efforts we have been making to ensure that small businesses in the Nigerian community in Winnipeg grow bigger and better.”

    One of the vendors, Adebowale Onafowora, described the fair as important to the growth of Nigerian businesses in Canada. According to him, the fair is a giant step towards achieving greater rewards in the Nigerian business community in Winnipeg.

    Read Also: Ileya, four other popular festivals in Nigeria

    Onafowora is the Global Team Lead of Bearers in Christ (BIC) Agritech, established in 2006 in Nigeria. BIC offers innovative technology-based solutions to ensure Africans, nay Nigerians, have access to fresh foods and fruits in Canada.

    He said: “We set up this growth system for African organic vegetables because our goal is to bridge the culinary gap for Africans in the Diaspora. The moment you remove a crop from its tree, it begins to lose its nutritional value. And, unfortunately, most of our fruits and veggies come here dry. And though we have African stores, our fresh foods are still not of the best quality, and that is what we aim to address.

    “We want to make our food grow locally in and out of season.  Winnipeg has seven months of winter. But with our system, you can grow your veggies all season. We have tried to localise the technology, so it is not expensive and everyone and afford it.

    “We have different systems that suit various apartment needs, whether a pavement, garage, veranda, or backyard; it does not matter. Our system will grow fresh fruits and veggies possibly all year round. The better part is it’s a home-based business and you can start by growing your own. When you surpass your needs, you can start selling.”

    According to Onafowora, the system costs about $500, and with a four-week cycle per term, it can grow over 32 bunches of vegetable. The system is semi-automated and only requires about 30 minutes tending per day. The company also offers a follow-up service to ensure things are done right.

    The entire system has a life span of about 10 years. Heat is generated through lighting gotten from sysnthesising sunlight. The bulbs are built to last about 50,000 hours, depending on usage, and they can last for about four or five years. The system also uses minimal electricity.

    Another vendor, Mrs. Eniola Abiola of 2buddy Kitchen, treated participants to a variety of popular dishes. There was ewa agoyin, moinmoin, akara, tapioca and a host of other foods common on the streets of Lagos.

    According to her, the fair was an opportunity to remind ourselves that wherever we go, Nigeria goes with us. “And not forgetting that the Nigerian culture is a beautiful one, so we have come out today in full display and to tell the world that Naija no dey carry last.”

    The glitz of culture

    The fair was however not just about business, it was a confirmation that the Nigerian culture remains alive, strong and active. The fair was a strong platform to showcase the Nigerian culture in its beauty. Ranging from the food, drinks, snacks to attires, even the music, it was a beauty to behold, and a memory never to be forgotten in a hurry. Everything screamed ‘this is naija’.

    Adebayo said: “Nigerians are very lively and happy people and this was displayed here today. We love connections, and so the fact that we can meet, connect and hug physically beyond the online conversations made it more beautiful. This is also in celebration of our culture, and we are fostering the connection within our community where people can come together and have genuine connections.

    “We had about 20 food courts where the vendors brought the original Naija flavour to life. There was suya and roasted corn stand, all the treats, street food and cuisines we ate back home. It connects us back home and helps us relieve the experiences. Our owambe experiences, street food sense and others are being relived here.”

    Adebayo hopes that the fair will be bigger in coming years to incorporate other communities in Canada.

    “We are looking to grow bigger every year and also incorporate other communities in Winnipeg or Canada, so they can have a taste of the Nigerian culture, fashion, cuisine and others. We are going to see a fusion of cultures. We already have other Africans and the Caribbean doing this with us here, but we want others to come in and make it a bigger market.

    “We also hope that one day we can have a Nigerian community store, more like the Superstore here, so our people can walk in anytime and shop for whatever they want in real time,” she noted.