The 2025 Nigeria Social Cohesion Survey conducted by the Africa Polling Institute (API) paints an alarming picture of the deepening trust deficit between Nigerian citizens and their government.
Development Diaries reports that when compared with previous editions (2019, 2021, and 2022), the poll reveals that citizens’ trust and public confidence were at their lowest ebb.
According to the report, 83 percent of Nigerians expressed little or no trust in the administration of President Bola Tinubu, while 82 percent felt similarly about the National Assembly, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.
This decline in public confidence is the lowest recorded in recent years, signalling a growing crisis of legitimacy and governance that must not be ignored.
Even the judiciary, often seen as the last hope for justice in a democracy, was not spared. 79 percent of citizens indicated low trust in the judicial system, under both the former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Kayode Ariwoola, and the current CJN, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun.
The survey also found that many Nigerians feel united by a shared struggle caused by the high cost of living, poor transportation, and economic hardship.
Under President Tinubu’s leadership, people say things have become harder, not better. In fact, 53 percent of Nigerians said they feel disappointed in Nigeria.
Citizens continue to cite harsh realities such as high transport fares, inflated prices of basic goods and services, and a general lack of economic opportunities under the current administration.
This shows that the average citizen is frustrated and wants real change that will improve their daily life.
This systemic distrust has severe implications. When the people lose faith in all three arms of government, the foundations of democracy begin to erode, and social unrest becomes more likely.
President Tinubu and his team need to take this seriously. Nigerians want leaders who listen, act honestly, and deliver real results.
President Tinubu and his cabinet must treat these findings as a red alert.
Rebuilding public trust will require more than rhetoric, it demands urgent, visible, and consistent action.
Transparency in governance, delivery on key economic promises, reforms in public institutions, and meaningful engagement with citizens are no longer optional; they are essential for preserving the nation’s stability.
Development Diaries calls on President Tinubu, Senate President Akpabio, CJN Kekere-Ekun and the ministers to take this seriously, rebuild trust by being more open, fixing the economy, and making sure public institutions work for everyone.
Nigerians want leaders who listen, act honestly, and deliver real results.
Photo source: Presidency Nigeria
