Nigerians are more optimistic about the future than those outside the shores of the country despite growing grievances and trust deficit, according to the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer.
“Nigerians are more optimistic than their global counterparts, with 50 percent believing that compared to today, future generations will be better off. In most developed countries, less than 1 in 5 respondents believe that,” the global communication firm said in its report titled ‘The 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer Nigeria Report: Trust and the Crisis of Grievance’.
The report showed that trust in Nigeria’s institutions including business, government, media, and NGOs has increased to a Trust Index score of 65, up 4 points from the previous year.
It however paints a picture of a deep sense of grievance and economic anxiety among Nigerians.
According to the report, concerns over job loss due to foreign competition have escalated among employees, rising by nine points from the previous year to reach 67 percent.
Read also: Nigeria’s trust index rises by 65% amid institutional failure, economic hardships
Fears of job insecurity due to automation have also surged by eight points, now standing at 70 percent among employees, signalling growing apprehension about job displacement and job security.
“These anxieties contribute to a pervasive sense of grievance, with 72 percent of Nigerians having a moderate or higher sense of grievance, believing that business, government, and the affluent primarily serve a select few, perpetuating systemic inequities. Such sentiments erode trust and hinder societal progress and must be addressed head-on,” says Karena Crerar, chief executive officer at Edelman Africa.
The erosion of trust extends to leadership itself: 7 in 10 Nigerians worry that government officials, business leaders, and journalists each intentionally mislead the public.
This crisis of credibility threatens the foundation of both economic and social stability, the report stated.
But there’s a growing grievance among the populace as the report indicated that 74 percent of Nigerians believe that the wealthy’s selfishness causes many of our problems.
“Alarmingly, over half of the population, 52%, view hostile activism – including online attacks, disinformation, and/or property damage – as viable methods to effect change. This statistic should serve as a clarion call for all institutional leaders to address underlying grievances proactively,” Crerar said.
Read also: Nigeria’s trust index in key institutions rises – report
However, all institutions must work together to build trust. The report calls on business, government, media, and NGOs to work together to address the root causes of grievances and enable trust, growth, and prosperity.
This means investing in local communities, providing accurate information, and equipping individuals with job skills that drive economic mobility.
“The institutional failures of the past 25 years have fuelled grievances worldwide, stifling growth and innovation. To navigate this crisis, leaders must understand the economic realities of their stakeholders, champion shared interests, and create opportunities for optimism.”
