Only 33% Of Nigerians Proud Of National Identity – New API Poll Reveals

A new nationwide survey by the Africa Polling Institute (API) has found that just 33% of Nigerians feel proud to be citizens of the country, with the majority expressing disappointment or indifference toward national identity.

According to the 2025 Nigeria Social Cohesion Survey conducted by API, 53% of respondents said they feel disappointed in Nigeria, while another 12% expressed indifference toward the nation.

The poll, which included 5,465 face-to-face household interviews, was conducted across Nigeria using a stratified random sampling method. Participants aged 15 and above were interviewed in English, Pidgin, Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba, ensuring balanced representation across all 36 states and senatorial zones.

The survey further explored the dynamics of ethnic versus national identity. It found that 48% of respondents identified equally with both their ethnicity and nationality. Meanwhile, 27% said they identify more with their ethnic group, and only 11% identified more with being Nigerian than with their ethnicity.

The findings come amid growing public frustration over insecurity, poor governance, economic hardship, and political instability. API says the data signals deep-rooted issues around patriotism and belonging, calling for a national reorientation agenda to rebuild trust and unity.

The report concluded with strong recommendations, including the creation of a new social contract that promotes inclusion, fairness, and a renewed sense of shared national purpose key steps it says are necessary to address the disillusionment seen among Nigerians, especially youth and marginalised groups.

“This survey shows that Nigerians are struggling with a fractured sense of national identity,” said Dr. Bell Ihua, Executive Director of the Africa Polling Institute.

“It’s a wake-up call to policymakers there is an urgent need for inclusive governance and a national rebranding that fosters pride and unity,” he added.