It’s only the first few weeks of 2026, but Google’s Search data is already offering a clear window into the Nigerian mindset for the year. According to a recent Google search trends, the new year is driven less by vague resolutions and more by deliberate plans for growth, business creation, and personal development.
In the first two weeks of January alone, searches related to self-improvement and “becoming better” surged by 40%. Across different aspects of life, including careers, health, relationships, and skills, Nigerians are actively seeking tools and knowledge to level up.
“How to start a business” emerged as the most searched “how to start” query in early January, recording an 80% increase.
Interestingly, the side hustle has evolved. While traditional business is still king, Nigerians are increasingly looking to the creator economy to build their brands. The top “New Beginning” searches include launching a podcast, starting a YouTube channel, and starting a blog.
This reflects a growing interest in online platforms as income sources, personal brands, and scalable businesses, especially among younger Nigerians navigating a competitive job market.
Personal development is also becoming a central focus in 2026. Searches for “how to be a better person” grew by 20%, alongside queries about becoming better partners, listeners, and communicators.
Among the most popular searches were “How to be a better lover, husband, wife, girlfriend, or boyfriend,” “How to be a better listener,” and “How to become a better writer or singer.”
These patterns point to a broader desire for self-awareness, stronger relationships, and improved emotional intelligence.
Well-being as a priority
Searches for “how to eat healthy” and “healthy diet” increased by 40%, suggesting a renewed commitment to physical health. Mental wellness also gained similar attention, with searches for “how to meditate” also rising by 40%.
Victoria Fakiya – Senior Writer
Techpoint Digest
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According to Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, Google’s Communications and Public Affairs Manager for West Africa, these trends reflect Nigeria’s collective hunger for progress.
“We see Search as a cultural mirror that captures the pulse of the nation, and remain committed to ensuring our tools, from Search to Gemini, provide the relevant and helpful insights Nigerians need to navigate their daily journeys and build a more prosperous future,” Kola Ogunlade says.
In 2025, Nigerian Google searches focused more on local and political issues, as well as staying fluent in digital culture and slang.
Based on the Google search data for the new year, it seems Nigerians have collectively decided that 2026 is the year of upgrade. However, turning these resolutions and searches into actionable self-improvement will take more than just intent and plans.
