A new Social Cohesion Report released by the Africa Polling Institute (API) reveals that the Nigerian National Assembly is now the government institution with the lowest public trust, with 77% of citizens expressing a lack of faith in the body. This shift marks the first time the assembly has overtaken the Nigerian Police Force for the lowest ranking.
API Executive Director, Prof. Bell Ihua, presented the findings at a dialogue in Abuja, noting that the Nigeria Social Cohesion Index reached 48.8%. While this is the highest score recorded since the study began, it remains slightly below the 50% benchmark, indicating that social harmony in the country still faces significant hurdles.
The study highlights a persistent divide in confidence. While 51% of Nigerians trust religious leaders and 45% trust traditional leaders, only 28% have confidence in the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and only 23% trust the legislature. Furthermore, 73% of participants reported little to no trust in the judiciary.
Conducted between January and February 2025 with 5,315 respondents, the survey utilized face-to-face interviews across the nation. The research measured 14 key indicators, including trust, social justice, corruption, and identity. A notable shift in the data shows that for the first time, a majority of respondents now identify primarily as Nigerian over their ethnic or religious affiliations, which the API describes as a major milestone for national unity.
Despite this progress, the survey found that 55% of citizens would consider emigrating if given the chance. To address these issues, the API recommends that the government establish a National Social Cohesion Commission and integrate dedicated cohesion desks within all government ministries and agencies to promote inclusive policy-making.
