A new survey by the Africa Polling Institute (API) reveals a steep decline in public trust toward Nigeria’s top institutions, including the presidency, judiciary, and legislature.
The 2025 Nigeria Social Cohesion Survey, unveiled at a national dialogue in Abuja, paints a stark picture of national disillusionment.
The study shows that most Nigerians feel abandoned by the very systems meant to protect and serve them. The findings come at a time when economic hardship and political uncertainty weigh heavily on the average citizen.
Trust in Leadership at Record Low
The survey shows that 83% of Nigerians have little or no trust in President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Another 82% said they do not trust the National Assembly, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.
The judiciary, now headed by Chief Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, didn’t fare much better. About 79% of respondents said they do not trust the courts to act fairly or independently.
“This year’s data paints a troubling picture,” said Bell Ihua, Executive Director of API. “Trust in public institutions is at its weakest point since we started this series, while the Nigeria Social Cohesion Index (NSCI) stands at 46.8%—well below the 50% benchmark for a stable, unified society.”
The survey was conducted between January and February 2025. API interviewed 5,465 citizens across the six geo-political zones using Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, Pidgin, and English. The study covered 14 indicators, including trust, identity, corruption, economic outlook, gender roles, and civic participation.
One Nigeria, Many Burdens
The country remains divided by ethnicity and politics, with only 11% saying they feel more Nigerian than loyal to their ethnic group.
But while identity differs, struggle unites. The cost of living under the so-called “Tinubu economy” remains a shared burden.
Inflation has made food, transportation, rent, and medical services unaffordable for many. The National Bureau of Statistics reports that inflation stood at 33.7% in May 2025.
More than half—53%—say they are disappointed in Nigeria, while only 33% say they are proud. Fifty-nine percent are unhappy with their current quality of life.
If given the chance, 53% would relocate abroad with their families.
Anti-Corruption Fatigue and Judicial Failure
On corruption, six in ten believe bribery and abuse of power have worsened. About 64% rated the government’s anti-corruption efforts as poor.
The judiciary, long seen as the final hope for justice, is fast losing credibility. A separate 2021 study by the same institute showed 71% of citizens lacked confidence in the courts.
Chief Justice Kekere-Ekun once admitted: “Public faith in the courts will continue to erode unless reforms are made to reduce the backlog of cases and deliver justice faster.”
As of early 2024, more than 243,000 cases were pending in Nigeria’s superior courts.
Still Hopeful, Still Willing
Despite the bleak numbers, Nigerians are not giving up. The report found that 76% are ready to engage politically, and 79% are open to cooperating across ethnic lines.
In fact, 91% of respondents support inter-ethnic marriages, while 63% said they would vote for a female president. On gender equity, 71% believe women should lead across all sectors.
The survey suggests that Nigerians are eager to rebuild, but need systems that inspire confidence and leaders who act with integrity.
A Call for a New National Contract
API has called on the federal government to establish a National Cohesion Commission. The commission would promote unity, inclusion, and fairness across Nigeria’s diverse communities.
“We need a new social contract—one built on dignity, mutual respect, and justice,” Ihua stated. “This is a collective mission, and every Nigerian must take part.”
He called on public agencies like the National Orientation Agency, Federal Character Commission, and NTA, as well as civil society groups, to lead in rebuilding trust.
He also urged ordinary citizens to join civic dialogues and participate in reshaping the country’s future.
Which current arm of government of Nigeria do you trust more than the others that it is working earnestly for the good of the nation and its peoples: Tinubu’s federal Executive, Akpabio’s National Assembly, or Justice Kekere-Ekun’s Judiciary?Rate, Like 👍, Comment💬, share this article, Follow us on our social media handles, and Submit your own story to get featured and earn rewards!
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