As little as 33% of Nigerians feel truly proud to be Nigerian, according to new findings from the 2025 Nigeria Social Cohesion Survey by the Africa Polling Institute (API).
Also, 53% of the respondents said they are disappointed in the country, while 12% expressed indifference.
A total of 5,465 face-to-face household interviews were conducted using a stratified random sampling method, targeting citizens aged 15 and above.
The interviews were carried out in five major languages—English, Pidgin, Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba—with geographic quotas assigned to ensure proportional representation across all states and senatorial districts.
The report also noted a complex identity dynamic, with 48% of Nigerians saying they identify equally with both their ethnic group and nationality. Meanwhile, 27% admitted they identify more with their ethnic roots than the nation itself.
Key findings from the 2025 survey revealed that 53% of Nigerians “feel disappointed in Nigeria”, compared to 33% who feel truly proud of the country; while 12% feel indifferent
Also, 48% of Nigerians are proud of being equally Nigerian and from their ethnic group; while 27% identify more with their ethnicity than with being Nigerian, compared to only 11% who feel more Nigerian than ethnic.
The findings underscore the challenges facing national identity and unity in Nigeria, and API called for urgent action to foster patriotism and a shared sense of purpose among Nigerians.
The think tank recommended the development of a new social contract that would promote inclusivity, equity, and belonging, in contrast to the current structure, which many believe has left large segments of the population alienated and underserved.
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