National Assembly least trusted Nigerian institution; overtakes Police - Report

Nigeria's National Assembly has emerged as the least trusted institution in the country, according to the '2026 Social Cohesion Report' released by the Africa Polling Institute (API). The report indicates that a significant 77% of Nigerians expressed no trust in the legislative body, a sentiment that now places it below the Nigerian Police Force in terms of public confidence.

The API's findings, unveiled by Executive Director Prof Bell Ihua, also computed Nigeria's Social Cohesion Index (NSCI) at 48.8%. While this represents a marginal increase of 2 percentage points from the previous year and is the highest recorded since the study began, it remains just below the average threshold of 50%. This resilience in social cohesion suggests Nigerians are committed to coexistence despite ongoing hardships.

However, the survey highlights a persistent trust deficit in government and public institutions. Only 28% of Nigerians trust President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration, and a mere 23% trust the National Assembly. In stark contrast, religious and traditional leaders command significant trust, with 51% and 45% of Nigerians expressing confidence in them, respectively.

The national citizen survey, conducted between January and February 2025 with support from the Ford Foundation, involved 5,315 face-to-face interviews across Nigeria. The study measured social cohesion using 14 indicators, including identity, trust, social justice, civic participation, tolerance, and corruption. The report underscores a critical need to address the lack of faith in governmental institutions while acknowledging the enduring trust placed in traditional and religious authorities.

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This assessment places the National Assembly as the least trusted institution in the country, a position previously held by the Police, with 24% trust in the current survey.