New Google Search trends released on Thursday indicate that Nigerians are increasingly leveraging the internet to acquire new skills and start entrepreneurial ventures, with a strong focus on using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to advance their careers.
The data reflects a national drive for upskilling and financial independence in a rapidly evolving and dynamic job market.
The surge in career-related searches highlights a clear desire among Nigerians to adapt to new economic realities.
In the past 12 months, search interest for “how to make money with ai” increased by +40%.
The entrepreneurial spirit is also evident, with searches for ” how to start a business from home” almost doubling (+90%) and “how to start a business with no money” increasing by +80% year-over-year.
Shifting Focus to New Business Ventures
Nigerians are actively exploring a diverse range of business ideas through Google Search.
The top searched “how to start a business” queries in the past 12 months include how to start a real estate business, how to start cocoa export business in Nigeria, how to start a ghostwriting business, how to start a clothing business, and how to start an importation business.
These searches imply a strong entrepreneurial drive and a desire for financial independence among Nigerians, as they actively seek new avenues for income generation and skill development.
The data also reveals a strong interest in digital and creative careers, with top searches for “how to start” related to jobs and skills including “how to start freelancing with no experience,” “how to start a fashion brand,” and “how to start creating content.”
AI and Trending Skills Take Center Stage
The desire to upskill is a major theme, particularly with the rise of AI.
“how to learn ai” jumped by +160% over the past 12 months, placing it among the top trending “how to learn” searches in Nigeria. Other skills seeing a dramatic increase in search interest include:
how to learn forex trade (+300%)
how to learn make up (+270%)
how to learn photoshop (+180%)
how to learn computer step by step (+160%)
Speaking 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.”
