Former President Muhammadu Buhari and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central have emerged as the most searched Nigerian personalities of 2025, according to Google‘s annual Year in Search report released Thursday.
The comprehensive report provides insight into how Nigerians utilised internet search throughout the year to stay informed about political developments, cultural movements, breaking news, and entertainment trends across the country and beyond.
Buhari’s Death
The passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari generated one of the largest spikes in online search activity recorded in Nigeria this year. Citizens flooded Google with queries seeking detailed information about his extensive political career, his tenure as president, and the lasting legacy he left on Nigerian governance and politics.
Buhari’s death was part of a sombre year that saw Nigerians mourning several prominent figures. Other notable deaths that captured significant public attention included Super Eagles goalkeeper legend Peter Rufai, Pope Francis, and international footballer Diogo Jota. The collective search patterns reflected a year marked by widespread public interest in remembering and honouring influential personalities who passed away.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan claimed the distinction of being the most searched living Nigerian personality throughout 2025. Google’s report specifically noted “unprecedented public interest” surrounding her political activities, legislative work, and leadership profile in the National Assembly.
Her dominant online presence signals a growing trend of public engagement with political discourse and increased attention to leadership developments within Nigeria’s democratic institutions. The senator’s high search ranking reflects Nigerians’ heightened interest in following the actions and decisions of their elected representatives.
Entertainment Dominates
The entertainment sector featured prominently in Nigeria’s 2025 search trends. Nollywood director Kemi Adetiba ranked among the most searched personalities, propelled by the massive popularity of her television series “To Kill a Monkey,” which became the year’s most searched local show. The series clearly resonated with Nigerian audiences and sparked widespread online discussion.
In the music category, gospel artist Tkeyz captured significant attention with his inspirational hit song “Jesus Is Enough,” which topped gospel music searches. Following closely were Fido’s uplifting track “Joy Is Coming” and the highly anticipated collaboration between Afrobeats superstar Davido and rising star Omah Lay on their single “With You.”
Google’s Perspective
Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, Communications and Public Affairs Manager for Google West Africa, provided context for the findings: “The 2025 Year in Search is a vibrant reflection of what Nigerians paid attention to. From major headlines and global conflicts to new slang and cooking trends, Nigerians used Search to explore the world around them.”
Google characterised the report as an “unfiltered mirror of collective attention,” demonstrating how Nigerian internet users actively engaged with diverse topics spanning politics, breaking news, cultural phenomena, and entertainment throughout 2025. The search patterns reveal a digitally engaged population seeking information, connection, and understanding of events shaping their nation and the wider world.
The Year in Search report underscores the internet’s role as Nigeria’s primary source for information-seeking behaviour, highlighting the topics and personalities that dominated public consciousness during a consequential year in the nation’s history.
