Abstract: According to the free market model of population mobility, differences in the reward structure operate to draw workers from less rewarding to more rewarding work activities and places; changes in this structure are therefore likely to affect occupational and geographical mobility. During the 1970s Nigeria experienced a tremendous economic expansion owing to the oil boom. This led to accelerated demand for professionals throughout the economy. During the same period the creation of more states spread economic activities throughout the country and effected the relocation of professionals. Studies have documented the fact that professionals earn more than other groups of workers in Nigeria. But what perhaps has not yet been adequately studied is the geographic movement of these professionals in response to changing economic conditions. For instance, how extensive has been their movement from the public to the private sector, or between States? What factors explain the differentials among various professional groups? Which are characterized by long-distance movement and which are not?