Onome Amuge

A new set of Google Search trends released Thursday  reveals a wave of digital curiosity among Nigerians, as millions increasingly turn to the internet to acquire new skills, explore artificial intelligence (AI), and start entrepreneurial ventures.

The data, covering the past 12 months, showcases a nation adapting to a shifting economic landscape, one where financial independence and upskilling have become personal priorities. According to Google, searches such as “how to make money with AI” rose by 40 per cent, underscoring Nigerians’ eagerness to harness emerging technologies to advance their careers and income streams.

This digital activity reflects what analysts describe as a new “learning economy”, where the internet has become the classroom, mentor, and marketplace for millions of Nigerians facing an uncertain job market.

Beyond technology, the data shows that Nigerians’ entrepreneurial drive remains resilient. Searches for “how to start a business from home” nearly doubled (+90%), while “how to start a business with no money” rose 80 per cent year-over-year.

The most-searched “how to start a business” queries reveal a mix of traditional and modern aspirations consisting real estate, cocoa exports, ghostwriting, fashion, and importation. Industry watchers say this combination of old and new enterprise models reflects how Nigerians are using digital tools to bridge ambition with opportunity.

Artificial intelligence has emerged as a key focus of Nigeria’s self-driven learning trend. Searches for “how to learn AI” jumped 160 percent, ranking among the top trending “how to learn” queries nationwide.

Other high-growth learning interests include:

• “how to learn forex trade” (+300%)
  
• “how to learn makeup” (+270%)
  
• “how to learn Photoshop” (+180%)
  
• “how to learn computer step by step” (+160%)
  

These trends, according to Google, highlight a growing appetite for both technical and creative skills,  from coding and trading to content creation and digital artistry.

Nigeria’s embrace of self-directed learning comes as the global job market tilts toward digital skills and freelance work. With unemployment and underemployment still affecting millions, platforms like Google Search, YouTube, and Coursera have become gateways to opportunity, particularly for younger Nigerians navigating a tight economy.

The rise in search interest for freelancing and content creation further reinforces this shift. Top searches such as “how to start freelancing with no experience”, “how to start a fashion brand”, and “how to start creating content” reflect how Nigerians are blending digital literacy with creativity to build side hustles and online careers.

Commenting on the trends, Olumide Balogun, West Africa director at Google, said: “These search trends reflect the ambition and adaptability of Nigerians. The data shows a clear pattern of people using technology, and in particular AI, to build their skills, create new opportunities, and navigate a changing professional landscape. We are committed to providing the tools that empower this growth and innovation.”