Google’s 2025 Year in Search report has offered a revealing snapshot of what dominated the minds of Nigerians over the past year, showing a sharp rise in interest across news, politics, sports, entertainment, technology and viral internet culture.
The annual report, which tracks search queries with the biggest year-on-year growth, highlights how Nigerians responded to major global events, local personalities and pop culture moments that shaped conversations throughout 2025.
News and Global Events Took Centre Stage
Searches related to breaking news topped the charts, reflecting a year marked by significant developments at home and abroad.
Nigerians showed heightened interest in the World Cup, the Israel–Iran conflict, and the deaths of prominent figures such as Liverpool footballer Diogo Jota and Nigeria’s former president, Muhammadu Buhari.
Other widely searched newsmakers included Pope Francis and wrestling legend Hulk Hogan, underscoring Nigerians’ engagement with global affairs and influential personalities.
Public Figures and Politics
Local figures attracted intense online attention. Senator Natasha Akpoti emerged as the most searched Nigerian personality of the year, followed by footballer Eberechi Eze, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, actress Chika Ike, musician Mr Eazi, filmmaker Kemi Adetiba and food entrepreneur Hilda Baci. Social media personality Very Dark Man and actress Priscilla Ojo also ranked highly.
Beyond Nigeria’s borders, Nigerians actively searched for international figures such as Viktor Gyokeres, Alejandro Garnacho, Joao Pedro, Aaron Pierre, Tyler Perry, Michele Lamy, Larry Ellison, Kim Sae Ron, Teyana Taylor and Cameroonian president Paul Biya.
Football Dominated Sports Searches
Sports-related searches were overwhelmingly football-focused. Nigerians closely followed players including Viktor Gyokeres, Alejandro Garnacho, Xavi Simons, Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo, Alexander Isak, Noni Madueke and Andre Silva, highlighting the country’s enduring passion for the sport.
Entertainment and Celebrity Culture
The entertainment industry also played a major role in shaping search trends. Actors, musicians and filmmakers such as Aaron Pierre, Juma Jux, Mr Eazi, Kemi Adetiba, Kim Sae Ron and Teyana Taylor generated significant interest.
Searches linked to death and loss were also prominent, as Nigerians sought information about notable figures who passed away during the year. These included Muhammadu Buhari, Diogo Jota, Pope Francis, Hulk Hogan, Charlie Kirk, Peter Rufai, Doyin Okupe and others.
Music, Movies and TV Shows
Music remained a powerful driver of online curiosity. Popular search queries included songs and lyrics such as Oluwatosin, Joy Is Coming, With You by Davido featuring Omah Lay, Laho by Shallipopi, and tracks by Teni like Arike and Money.
Film and television searches reflected a blend of local and international content.
Nigerians showed strong interest in titles such as Straw, To Kill a Monkey, Fantastic Four, Final Destination, Squid Game, Wednesday season two and Koleoso.
Viral Slang and Internet Culture
Google’s data also revealed Nigerians’ curiosity about trending slang and online expressions.
Searches spiked around the meanings of words like “Achalugo,” “labubu,” “kelebu,” “demure,” “nepo baby,” “allegedly” and “Ozempic,” highlighting the influence of social media on everyday language.
Food Trends and Lifestyle Searches
Food-related searches reflected the impact of viral recipes and lifestyle content.
Nigerians looked up how to make pornstar martinis, ginger shots, chin-chin, sausage rolls, hummus, Chinese-style chickwizz rice and asun rice.
Technology and Gadgets
On the technology front, consumer interest was driven by new devices.
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The iPhone 17 led tech-related searches, alongside budget-friendly smartphones such as the Tecno Pop 10 and Infinix Note 50 Pro.
A Snapshot of Nigerian Curiosity
Overall, Google’s 202 Year in Search paints a picture of a country deeply engaged with serious national and global issues, while still embracing entertainment, food, humour and internet culture.
The trends reflect a balance between awareness of world events and a strong appetite for lifestyle and pop culture content—defining the digital interests of Nigerians throughout the year.
