Google Search report has shown that “How to” searches are dominating Nigerian search results as they look for ways to improve their personal lives, health, and economic opportunities in 2026.
According to data released by Google, searches related to self-improvement, entrepreneurship, and personal development rose sharply in the first two weeks of January. The report recorded a 40 per cent increase in searches focused on “becoming better,” entrepreneurial growth, and acquiring skills needed to succeed in various areas of life.
Among the most searched topics by Nigerians were “how to start a business,” “starting a blog,” “launching a podcast,” and “opening a YouTube channel.” Of these, “how to start a business” ranked highest, recording an 80 per cent increase in searches during the period.
The report showed searches for “how to be a better person” increase by 20 per cent, with related queries showing in improving relationships and interpersonal skills.
Top searches under the “how to be a better…” category included:
- How to be a better person
- How to be a better lover
- How to be a better girlfriend
- How to be a better boyfriend
- How to be a better husband
In the “how to improve…” category, Nigerians showed interest in improving English, memory, communication skills, credit score, handwriting, posture, gut health, and concentration.
Health and wellness featured prominently in the report. Searches for “how to eat healthy” and “healthy diet” rose by 40 per cent, indicating increased attention to nutrition. Searches for “how to meditate” also recorded a 40 per cent increase, pointing to growing interest in mental wellness.
Other health-related searches focused on improving eyesight, circulation, posture, and overall physical well-being.
The report showed that Nigerians are seeking skill development in both professional and leisure activities. Popular searches included ways to get better at chess, basketball, football, running, singing, drawing, and mathematics.
Commenting on the findings, Google’s Communications and Public Affairs Manager for West Africa, Mr Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, said:
“These trends are a powerful reflection of Nigeria’s collective ambition and our shared desire to grow. Search serves as a mirror that shows what matters to people,” he said.
He added that Google seeks to provide tools that help Nigerians find relevant information and make informed decisions.
Top Google Searches in Nigeria for 2025
Google also released its list of the most searched words and topics by Nigerians in 2025 include:
Top Overall Searches
- Club World Cup
- iPhone 17
- Israel-Iran War
- Pope Francis
Most-Searched Nigerian Personalities
- Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan
- Eberechi Eze
- Fubara
- Mr Eazi
Most-Searched Global Personalities
- Gyokeres
- Garnacho
- Joao Pedro
- Tyler Perry
Entertainment and Culture
- Oluwatosin (Jesus Is Enough) by Tkeyz ft. SteveHills
- Joy Is Coming by Fido
- With You by Davido ft. Omah Lay
- Series such as To Kill a Monkey and Wednesday Season 2
- Movies such as Straw and Superman 2025
Everyday Questions
Nigerians also searched for meanings and explanations, including:
- “What is Labubu?”
- “What is a war crime?”
- “Who is the new Pope?”