By Nigeria’s top government officials reach just 17 million people on social media, a fraction of the country’s 141.5 million internet users, new research shows.
A study by digital communications firm Column has found that most government ministers, including those in positions critical to national development, are missing out on the chance to talk directly with Nigerians on popular platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram.
Only 17 million people reached by the president, chief of staff, and all top ministers combined across X, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn.
Nigeria has over 141 million internet users, showing a large untapped digital audience.
Twitter/X is the favourite among government officials, with over 9.3 million followers from 51 ministers.
Facebook follows with 4.8 million from 45 ministers; Instagram trails at 2.1 million from 46 ministries.
TikTok and LinkedIn are barely used, just 7 ministers on TikTok and 17 on LinkedIn.
Ministers with the Biggest Voice
Just five people, President Bola Tinubu, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, Health Minister Muhammad Ali Pate, Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, make up over 60% of the total followers. Tinubu alone has 4.5 million online fans.
Meanwhile, some ministers have almost no digital presence. Two ministers have zero followers, and many others have less than 500, despite holding high-profile positions in key ministries.
The report points to a growing disconnect between the government and the people. Social media platforms are where millions of young Nigerians and professionals share opinions, seek accountability, and ask questions. Yet, the lack of a strong government presence online makes it harder for citizens to engage or get timely information.
Even ministries with youth-focused mandates, like Education, Youth Development, and Women’s Affairs, are far behind in building digital identities, despite having audiences eager for updates and engagement.
“The absence of these ministries online for engagement contributes to the country’s struggles with youth unemployment, public distrust in institutions, and limited access to real-time information,” the report says.
The study also found that many ministers’ accounts are dormant or unverified. Some don’t even link their accounts to official government pages, making it tough for Nigerians to know which accounts are real. This creates space for impersonation and misinformation, and shuts out feedback from citizens.
Health Minister Muhammad Ali Pate stands out for his regular updates across multiple platforms, earning him 1.46 million followers and a reputation for openness. Others, including ministers handling Justice and Finance, fall far below the online median.
Experts say digital presence is now a basic part of leadership. The report calls on ministries and officials to adopt clear digital communication plans to foster open conversations and build trust.
We’d love your thoughts on this article! Was the information relevant to you?
