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Infographic: Experience on Medical Errors Abuja, Nigeria. September 17th 2025  – In commemoration of World Patient Safety Day, NOIPolls conducted a nationwide poll which highlights the paramount importance of patient safety in healthcare, with an overwhelming 97 percent of respondents identifying it as a critical priority. This widespread consensus establishes a strong public mandate for robust patient safety initiatives. However, this also reveals a concerning disconnect between public expectations and the reality of healthcare experiences, highlighting significant gaps in patient safety, communication effectiveness, and public trust that warrant immediate attention.   This reveals a troubling prevalence of perceptions of medical errors, with 43 percent of respondents nationwide reporting personal or witnessed experiences with medical errors or near-miss incidents. This finding aligns with research from Nigerian healthcare settings, where medical errors represent a significant challenge. A study from the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital indicated that 64.5% of respondents reported annoyance and disappointment with medical errors, with almost half (46.8%) reporting that errors had been made in their care in the past [1] . Another report indicates that 27.9% of patient fatalities in Nigerian hospitals are due to medical errors, with 43.8% of these errors being preventable [2] . A national survey of 2,386 early-career doctors in Nigeria reported a 16.5% prevalence of medical errors [3] , while another study found that 75% of prescriptions in a Nigerian tertiary hospital contained some form of error [4] . Globally, the World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that one in every ten patients is harmed in healthcare settings, leading to over three million deaths annually from unsafe care [5] . These statistics underscore the urgent need for systemic improvements to reduce the incidence of preventable harm in Nigerian healthcare systems.   Furthermore, effective communication between healthcare providers and patients is a cornerstone of safe, high-quality care, yet the poll indicates that this is a significant area of weakness. Only half of the respondents (50 percent) rated communication with their healthcare providers as “good” (28 percent) or “very good,” (22 percent) with 24 percent expressing dissatisfaction. This communication deficit has profound implications for patient outcomes. Research consistently demonstrates that effective communication, both verbal and non-verbal, is strongly associated with improved patient satisfaction, better adherence to treatment, and enhanced mental and physical health outcomes [6] . For instance, a 2023 systematic review found that communication characterised by receptivity and trust was linked to significant improvements in patients' health at four weeks [7] . Conversely, poor communication is a major contributor to medical errors and adverse events [8] .   Additionally, the poll presents a mixed but generally positive view of public trust in healthcare organizations, with 73 percent of respondents believing that these organizations prioritize patient safety. However, this trust is not uniform and varies significantly across regions. Moreover, broader trends indicate a potential erosion of public trust in healthcare. For example, a 2024 JAMA Network Open study revealed a substantial decline in trust in physicians and hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic, from 71.5% in April 2020 to 40.1% in January 2024 [9] . Building and maintaining public trust is a complex endeavour, influenced by factors such as the design of the healthcare system, public scandals, and the handling of personal data [10] . To foster trust, healthcare organizations must prioritize competence, caring, and transparent communication [11] .   The poll identifies medication safety, staffing levels, and timely care as the most critical areas for improvement. These priorities are consistent with the broader research on patient safety. Addressing these key areas requires a multi-faceted approach that includes implementing evidence-based safety protocols, fostering a culture of safety, and promoting open communication and transparency. By focusing on these critical areas, healthcare organizations can begin to bridge the gap between public expectations and the reality of patient care, ultimately creating a safer and more trustworthy healthcare system for all. These are some of the key findings from the Patient Safety Poll  conducted in the week commencing September 15 th , 2025 .   Background Patient safety is a fundamental principle of healthcare, yet preventable harm to patients remains a significant global challenge. In recognition of this, the World Health Organization (WHO) established World Patient Safety Day, observed annually on September 17th [12] . This day serves as a global platform to raise awareness, promote engagement, and foster solidarity among patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to improve patient safety and reduce patient harm. The establishment of this day, through the World Health Assembly (WHA) resolution WHA 72.6 [13] , highlights the international commitment to prioritising patient safety as an integral component of universal health coverage [14] . Each year, a specific theme is chosen to highlight a priority area, such as this year's focus on "Safe care for every newborn and every child" [15] , which calls for concerted action to ensure that every child has the right to safe and quality care from the moment of birth.   In Nigeria, the patient safety landscape is marked by significant challenges that mirror and often exceed those seen in other developing nations. The healthcare system grapples with issues such as underfunding, with only about 3% of the nation's GDP invested in the health sector, a figure considerably below the average of OECD countries [16] . This financial constraint contributes to a cascade of problems, including inadequate infrastructure, a shortage of essential medical supplies, and a lack of modern diagnostic equipment. Consequently, medical errors are a major concern, with studies indicating a high prevalence of medication prescription errors [17]  and misdiagnoses [18] . The absence of robust error reporting systems in many healthcare facilities further exacerbates the problem, as it hinders learning from mistakes and implementing corrective measures [19] . These systemic issues contribute to a healthcare environment where patient safety is often compromised, leading to preventable harm and a decline in public trust in the healthcare system. Infographic: Health Care Organizations Prioritizing Patient Safety The provided survey questions delve into the core components of patient safety, reflecting the pressing concerns within the Nigerian healthcare context. The inquiry into the perceived importance of patient safety aims to gauge public awareness and expectations, which are crucial for driving accountability and demanding higher standards of care. The question on error reporting directly addresses a critical weakness in the system, where a culture of blame and fear of litigation often suppresses the reporting of medical errors and near-misses. Effective communication between healthcare providers and patients, another area of investigation in the survey, is a cornerstone of safe care, as it can prevent misunderstandings, improve adherence to treatment, and empower patients to participate in their own care. Furthermore, the survey's focus on whether healthcare organizations prioritize patient safety in their policies and practices seeks to understand the extent to which a 'safety culture' is embedded within these institutions, a factor that is widely recognized as a key determinant of patient safety outcomes.   Finally, the survey's emphasis on newborn and child safety, as well as trust in public health facilities, highlights a particularly vulnerable patient population and a critical aspect of healthcare delivery. The safety of health facilities for newborns and children is a matter of urgent concern, as they are more susceptible to infections and other forms of harm. The question of trust is equally vital, as a lack of confidence in public health facilities can lead to delayed or avoided care, with potentially devastating consequences. The final survey question, which asks for the most critical area for improvement, provides an opportunity for respondents to voice their priorities, whether it be medication safety, infection control, or better staffing. The responses to these questions will provide invaluable insights into the specific areas where interventions are most needed to build a safer and more trustworthy healthcare system for all Nigerians, especially its youngest and most vulnerable citizens. Against this backdrop, NOIPolls conducted a poll to gauge perception of Nigerians regarding Patient’s Safety  and hereby presents its findings.   Survey Findings The first question sought the opinions of adult Nigerians on the importance of patient safety in healthcare settings. The poll result reveals a strong consensus on the importance of patient safety, with a nationwide average of 77 percent of respondents rating it as “ very important ” and 20 percent as “ important ”. Only a slight (1 percent) of respondents rated it as “ not important ”. This sentiment is consistent across gender, geo-political zones, and age groups with 77 percent of males and 78 percent of female respondents rating patient safety as “ very important ”. The North East (80 percent) and North West (79 percent) zones account for the region with the highest proportion of respondents who believe patient safety is “ very important ". Respondents within the age group 61+ accounted the highest regarding patient safety as very important at 83 percent. Importance of Patient Safety in Healthcare Settings A significant portion of the population, 43 percent nationwide, reported to have experienced or witnessed a medical error or near-miss incident. This finding highlights a critical area of concern for the healthcare sector. Citizens experience of medical errors varies across demography. For instance, more males (46 percent) than females (39 percent) reported such experiences. The South South region has the highest reported experience at (53 percent), while the South West has the lowest at (35 percent). Among age groups, the 36-60 demographic reported the highest incidence at 46 percent. Experience on Medical Errors in Healthcare Setting Communication between healthcare providers and patients is a crucial aspect of patient safety. The poll results indicate a significant need for improvement in this area. Nationwide, (22 percent) of respondents rated the effectiveness of communication between healthcare providers and patients as “ Very good ” and “ Good ” (28 percent). However, 25 percent rated it as “ Average ”, and 12 percent rated “ poor ” or “ very poor ” respectively. The perception of communication effectiveness varies across regions with the North East having the highest percentage of respondents rating communication as “ good ” or “ very good ” (60 percent), while the South South has the lowest (34 percent). Communication between Healthcare Providers and Patients Subsequently, a majority of the public (73 percent) believe that healthcare organizations prioritize patient safety in their policies and practices. This indicates a degree of public trust in the healthcare system’s commitment to safety. However, 21 percent of respondents disagree while (6 percent) are unsure. The belief organizations prioritize patient safety is slightly higher among male respondents (74 percent) than females (72 percent). Across geo political zones, the North East (84 percent) and North West (83 percent) show the highest confidence, while the South South (64 percent) and the South East (63 percent) have the lowest. Prioritizing Patient Safety in Policy and Practice When asked to rate the safety of health facilities in their area for newborns and children, nationwide respondents 30 percent rated them as “ very safe ” and 38 percent as “ safe ” indicating a 68 percent positive rating. While 13 percent rated the safety of health facilities for newborns and children as “ neutral ”, 10 percent rated it as “ not safe ”, and 5 percent as “ not safe at all ”. Indicating that while a majority feel safe, a minority have concerns. The perception of safety varies across regions. For instance, the North West has the highest percentage of respondents who feel “very safe” (45 percent), while the South South has the lowest (14 percent). Safety of Community Health Facilities for Newborns and Children Furthermore, a high level of trust is placed in public health facilities for the care of newborns and children, with 78 percent of respondents answering “yes” affirming they trust public health facilities to provide safe care for newborns and children. A positive indicator of public confidence in pediatric and neonatal care provided by public health facilities. The trust level is slightly higher among females (80 percent) compared to male respondents (76 percent). Regionally, the North East and North West have the highest level of trust at (86 percent) respectively, while the South East has the lowest at (64 percent). Trust in Public Health Facilities for Newborn and Child Care Additionally, the poll identified critical areas for improvement in patient safety. The most frequently cited area is medication safety (19 percent), followed by better staffing (18 percent). Other areas citizens consider critical in improving patient safety including newborns and children are; timely care (9 percent), enhanced monitoring (8 percent), and supply of better equipment for diagnosis (7 percent). These findings provide clear guidance for healthcare providers and policymakers on where to focus their improvement efforts. Critical areas of Improvement for Patient Safety   Conclusion In conclusion, the comprehensive analysis of public perception on patient safety reveals a complex landscape of high expectations, concerning experiences, and clear priorities for improvement. The poll findings demonstrate that while there is universal recognition of patient safety’s importance, with 97 percent of respondents rating it as important or very important, the healthcare system faces significant challenges in meeting these expectations. The disconnect between the public’s high regard for patient safety and their actual experiences is particularly evident in the substantial 43 percent of respondents who have encountered medical errors or near-miss incidents. This gap suggests that despite widespread awareness and stated organizational commitments to patient safety, implementation and execution remain inconsistent across the healthcare settings.   The regional variations observed throughout the poll findings point to systemic disparities in healthcare quality and safety standards across different geo-political zones. The North East and North West regions consistently demonstrate higher levels of satisfaction and trust, while the South East and South South regions show more concerning patterns, including higher rates of medical errors and lower confidence in healthcare organizations. These disparities suggest that patient safety initiatives may need to be tailored to address specific regional challenges and resource constraints. The variation in communication effectiveness ratings, ranging from 60 percent positive ratings in the North East to only 34 percent in the South South, indicating standardized communication protocols and training programs could significantly improve patient experiences nationwide.   The identification of medication safety (19 percent) and better staffing (18 percent) as the top priorities for improvement provides actionable intelligence for healthcare policymakers and administrators. These findings align with global patient safety research, which consistently identifies medication errors and staffing shortages as primary contributors to adverse events. The emphasis on timely care (9 percent) and enhanced monitoring (8 percent) further reinforces the need for systematic improvements in healthcare delivery processes. The relatively high trust in public health facilities for newborn and child care (78 percent) suggests that specialized pediatrics and neonatal services may serve as models for broader healthcare improvement initiatives. The poll results emphasize the critical need for a multi-faceted approach to patient safety improvement that addresses both systemic issues and regional disparities. Healthcare organizations must prioritize medication safety protocols, address staffing challenges, and implement comprehensive communication training programs to bridge the gap between public expectations and actual experiences. The strong foundation of public awareness and concern for patient safety provides an opportunity for meaningful engagement and collaboration between healthcare providers and communities. Moving forward, regular monitoring of public perception, coupled with targeted interventions in the identified priority areas, will be essential for building a healthcare system that truly meets the safety expectations of the population it serves. Finally, the findings of this poll should serve as a baseline for measuring progress and ensuring that patient safety improvements are both meaningful and sustainable.   Survey Methods The opinion poll was conducted in the week commencing September 15 th , 2025. It involved telephone interviews of a proportionate nationwide sample of 1,000 randomly selected phone-owning Nigerians aged 18 years and above, representing the six geo-political regions and 36 states and the FCT of the country. Interviews were conducted in 5 languages – Igbo, Hausa, Yoruba, Pidgin English, and English. Although we can say with 95% confidence that the results obtained were statistically precise – within a margin of error of plus or minus 4.65%; we recognize that the exclusive use of telephone polling has its limitation of excluding non-phone-owning Nigerians. Nonetheless, with the country’s tele density put over 100 per cent by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), we consider our telephone polling approach appropriate. Also, given the rigorous scientific process of randomization and stratification applied, we can confidently stand by the validity of our methodology and approach. NOIPolls Limited, No. 1 for country-specific polling services in West Africa. We conduct periodic opinion polls and studies on various socio-economic and political issues in Nigeria. More information is available at www.noi-polls.com .   Disclaimer This press release has been produced by NOIPolls Limited to provide information on all issues which form the subject matter of the document. Kindly note that while we are willing to share results from our polls with the public, we only request that NOIPolls be acknowledged as authors whenever and wherever our poll results are used, cited, or published. NOIPolls hereby certifies that all the views expressed in this document accurately reflect the views of respondents surveyed for the poll, and background information is based on information from various sources that it believes are reliable; however, no representation is made that it is accurate or complete. Whilst reasonable care has been taken in preparing this document, no responsibility or liability is accepted for errors or facts, or any views expressed herein by NOIPolls for actions taken because of information provided in this report. Any ratings, forecasts, estimates, opinions, or views herein constitute a judgment as of the date of this document. If the date of this document is not current, the views and content may not reflect NOIPolls' current findings and/or thinking.   Press Contact Email:       editor@noi-polls.com                   cakubue@noi-polls.com                   nohuche@noi-polls.com   Number: +234 (0) 813 547 4512                  +234 (0) 813 749 6113 [1]   https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3824428/ [2]   https://greengoldattorneys.com/2024/11/04/patient-fatality-in-nigeria-legal-and-ethical-considerations/ [3]   https://ibommedicaljournal.org/index.php/imjhome/article/view/227/453 [4]   https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5443671/ [5]   https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/patient-safety [6]   https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10001171/ [7] https://bmchealthservres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12913-023-09869-8 [8]   https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499956/ [9]   https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2821693 [10]   https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9297454/ [11]   https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1553725021002361 [12] https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-patientsafety-day [13] https://www.who.int/teams/integrated-health-services/patient-safety/policy/resolutions [14] https://apps.who.int/gb/ebwha/pdf_files/WHA72/A72_R6-en.pdf [15] https://www.who.int/news-room/events/detail/2025/09/17/default-calendar/worldpatient-safety-day--17-september-2025--patient-safety-from-the-start [16] https://www.statista.com/topics/6575/health-in-nigeria/ [17] https://journals.lww.com/armh/fulltext/2017/05010/medical_errors_in_nigeria__a_cross_sectional_study.9.aspx [18] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3824428/ [19] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33346942/

Only 46% of Nigerians in August approved of the government and its handling of the nation's affairs, the latest Governance Approval Rating poll by NOIPolls shows. It is a two-point jump from July, when it got an approval rating of 44%

The stress of school, the pressure at home, the weight of being the "hope of the family"—they all melted away in that syrupy haze. The first time Rufus a.k.a Chimney tried codeine; he was 17. It was a dare. A few friends, a little bottle, and the guarantee that "you’ll feel like a king."  – and for a while, he actually did. What Rufus did not realize was that in chasing relief, he was opening the door to something far darker. At first, it was only on the weekends. Then, he included some school nights. Then, some mornings. He started skipping classes. He lost weight. His jokes stopped being funny. The sparkle in his eyes dimmed. His parents, friends, colleagues, thought it was just stress, while Baby Oku  assumed bobo was giving aura  for aura  with his buddies. By the time they discovered the truth, Chimney was hooked—not just on codeine, but on the numbness other substances gave him. The feeling of not needing to feel anything was such a thrilling escape. And this is not just Rufus’s story. It is the story of millions of young Nigerians within the age group of 15 -19, trapped in the silent epidemic of drug abuse . A society under strain, the impact of drugs and substance abuse does not end with only the individual, but it spreads like fire, beyond one, wherever it is able to find ignition. Families  break under the weight of confusion & helplessness, there is often a sporadic rise in violence and insecurity within communities,  and   loss of  young talented minds before they are able to blossom.   A society were talking about emotions is still considered weakness, drugs and other illicit substances become an easy outlet. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) 2018 Nigeria Drug Use Survey showed 14.4% of Nigerians aged 15–64 (approximately 14.3 million people ) have used drugs at least once in their lifetime with Cannabis  being the most abused drug in Nigeria, with over 10.6 million users . In line with these findings, a snap poll conducted by NOIPolls highlights a prevalence of drugs and substance abuse in Nigeria. Similarly, socio economic factors cited as contributing factors to drugs and substance abuse in Nigeria include Unemployment as a leading cause (32 percent),  Peer pressure (26 percent),  Parental neglect (20 percent),  Frustration (15 percent),  Poverty (15 percent)   amongst others. Cannabis  (with over 10.6 million users ), Prescription drugs , Codeine , Tramadol , and Alcohol all top the list of the most abused drugs in Nigeria. When millions of people are struggling with drugs, it is not just a national emergency but a threat to the country’s development. While often treated as a personal or moral failing, the widespread misuse of drugs has far-reaching consequences on a country's economy, workforce, health system, education sector, public safety , and governance  ranging from: Destruction of Human Capital, to Economic Burden, Public Health Crisis & Weakening of National Institutions. Every young person lost to addiction is a brick removed from the foundation of progress. What can be done? Strengthen prevention and education , create more rehab and mental health centers , Support job creation and youth empowerment , Ensure strict but fair enforcement of drug laws and Partner with Civil Society, Religious Institutions, and Traditional leaders.  To build stronger nations, we must build stronger people—free from addiction, empowered with purpose, and equipped to lead. A Ray of Hope! Rufus’s story could have ended in tragedy. But it didn’t. With the help of the community, rehabilitation programs, his journey back began. Drug abuse is stealing our youth, our future, and our peace. But we are not powerless. It starts with awareness. It continues with action. It ends with collective healing. Because the real high – Is building a Nigeria where no one has to numb their pain to feel alive .

Female Health Worker Educating People about Malaria Prevention When malaria is being discussed, common associations may include the characteristic buzzing of mosquitoes, the habitual clapping to swat them away, the onset of fever, the bitter taste in the mouth, or the similar bitter-tasting medication. Malaria remains a major public health concern and is endemic in several countries, including Nigeria. According to the World Malaria Report of 2023 by the World Health Organization, Nigeria accounts for approximately 27% of the global malaria cases and 31% of global malaria deaths, bearing a disproportionate share of the global burden. Nigeria continues to record one of the highest malaria-related mortality rates worldwide, particularly among children under five years of age. In response to this ongoing health crisis, the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP) launched the High Burden to High Impact (HBHI) approach in collaboration with global health partners. Furthermore, Nigeria developed a National Malaria Strategic Plan (NMSP) 2021–2025 , which aims to achieve a malaria-free Nigeria by significantly reducing malaria morbidity and mortality through coordinated interventions. In alignment with national objectives, state governments have also implemented tailored subnational malaria programs that address context-specific needs at local government and community levels. Cross-section of NOIPolls and SCIDaR staff during the Malaria SNT Community Poll training in January 2025 To assess public awareness and perceptions regarding malaria, a telephone-based survey was conducted by NOIPolls in partnership with Solina Centre for International Development and Research (SCIDaR) in February/March 2025. A total of 4,000 respondents across Kano and Kaduna were queried on their knowledge of malaria causation, treatment-seeking behaviour, and prevention practices. Misconceptions About the Cause of Malaria Despite widespread efforts involving community outreach and education campaigns, many respondents demonstrated a limited or incorrect understanding of malaria transmission. While malaria is scientifically known to be caused by Plasmodium parasites transmitted through the bites of infected female Anopheles  mosquitoes, several alternative beliefs were recorded during the survey (see image below). These beliefs suggest a profound gap between biomedical understanding and community perceptions, which can hinder effective prevention and treatment behaviours. Misconceptions about the Cause of Malaria Misinterpretation of Malaria Symptoms The symptoms of malaria which are typically fever, chills, headache, and malaise are well documented. However, respondents' interpretations of symptoms were often inaccurate and could lead to misuse of medications. For instance, some respondents remarked that; ●    “A fever that starts at 5 PM is a sign of malaria.” ●   “Malaria wipes the memory; it formats the brain.” ●   “If a headache persists after three days of using Paracetamol, then it's definitely malaria.” These misconceptions may contribute to delayed or inappropriate treatment, risking progression to severe malaria, including cerebral malaria, which is associated with seizures, impaired consciousness, and death, if untreated. Treatment Practices and Harmful Beliefs The World Health Organization recommends Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (ACT)  as the first-line treatment for uncomplicated malaria. Despite this, traditional and non-evidence-based treatments remain prevalent (see image below for random opinions). These practices not only lack scientific validity but may also lead to treatment failure, increased drug resistance, and adverse health outcomes. Misconceptions about Malaria Treatment Practices Malaria Prevention: Misaligned Practices Vector control which is primarily through the use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs)  and indoor residual spraying (IRS)  is a cornerstone of malaria prevention. However, survey responses indicated a reliance on ineffective or unverified practices including: ●   “Burning special leaves or dried orange peels repels mosquitoes.” ●   “Wearing white clothing to bed deters mosquito bites.” ●   “Burning rags soaked in red palm oil drives away malaria.” ●   “The only way to prevent malaria is to leave the country.” These beliefs highlight a critical disconnect between public knowledge and scientifically endorsed prevention strategies, thereby reducing the overall effectiveness of malaria control efforts. Strategic Recommendations The persistent prevalence of malaria in Nigeria, despite robust national and subnational programs, underscores the influence of misinformation and cultural beliefs on health behavior. To address this, the following actions are recommended: Strengthen Health Education Campaigns: Expand culturally sensitive and evidence-based public education campaigns that demystify malaria transmission, treatment, and prevention. Engage Community Leaders and Influencers:  Partner with religious, traditional, and community leaders to counteract harmful myths and promote uptake of proven interventions. Leverage Strategic Integration of Relevant Institutions and Partners.  For example, Patent and Proprietary Medicine Vendors (PPMVs) and chemists can be integrated into national malaria elimination strategies through targeted education, training, and inclusive frameworks. Improve Access to Diagnostics and ACTs:  Ensure universal access to malaria testing and effective treatment at all levels of the healthcare system. Monitor and Regulate Informal Drug Markets:  Implement regulatory frameworks to limit the spread of substandard medications and unsafe practices. Support Operational Research: Conduct localized research to understand barriers to effective malaria control and to refine intervention strategies. Conclusion Malaria control in Nigeria requires more than distribution of insecticide-treated nets and antimalarial drugs. To achieve a malaria-free Nigeria, it is imperative to address the deep-rooted cultural misconceptions and harmful practices that hinder progress. By combining medical interventions with behavioral change strategies, it is possible to significantly reduce the malaria burden and move closer to elimination.

Despite Nigeria being certified free of the wild poliovirus in 2020 by the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria still experiences staggering outbreaks of cVDPV (circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus). This is largely due to gaps in immunization coverage (RI and Polio), suboptimal campaign quality and high maternal mortality in the selected states. The April and June 2025 polio campaigns were co-implemented by NOIPolls alongside other partners as Outbreak Response (OBR) to address these gaps in the nine priority states. In three states - - Borno, Kaduna and Yobe -- NOIPolls contributed to the campaign through the provision of technical guidance, building the capacity of relevant personnel and providing supervision oversight. In Yobe, NOIPolls staff reviews materials and tally sheet with a field vaccinator This initiative spearheaded by the NPHCDA, National and State EOCS and supported by WHO, SCIDAR contributed to the strategic shift in the polio vaccine campaign by facilitating a thorough implementation of the process, and real-time monitoring of the vaccination process across implementation states. Our key interventions involve: The training and deployment of over 500 Independent Observers (IOs) to validate team selection across all three states The supervision of 4,000+ Independent Cluster Supervisors (ICSs) to ensure quality delivery of vaccination across all three states Supporting community-led nomination processes involving District heads and traditional leaders across all selected states Real-time data collection and feedback using ODK tools. This innovative shift in the campaign strategy for Polio eradication in Nigeria ensured transparency and accountability in the campaign planning and initiation process. NOIPolls’ commitment to quality data and accountability helped in restoring trust in the immunization process especially in communities where skepticism and fatigue had taken root. The inclusion of traditional leaders in the nomination of the vaccination team created a sense of local ownership amongst members of the community. These leaders became local champions of the campaigns ensuring that the right people were selected for the IEV processes, people who understand the terrain, the language and the concerns of the people they are meant to serve. Training was also another transformative process in the success of the IEV initiative as NOIPolls ensured that training sessions were not just box-ticking exercises but an immersive and practical experience. These trainings were held across all three states at ward and LGA levels in NOIPolls designated training locations. Post-training evaluations were rigorous, where only top performers made it to the final deployment list. Trained Independent Observers were also engaged to monitor these sessions, ensuring that the process remained honest and that no corners were cut. A Vaccination team meets to brief and review task at a primary health care center before the start of the day's work NOIPolls also ensured that field supervision was accurately conducted. Each ICS was assigned to a manageable number of vaccination teams ensuring a thorough monitoring process. Daily morning briefings were conducted to set the tone for the field activities and evening review meetings provided a platform to troubleshoot issues and share learnings. In areas where the terrains and security were a challenge, supervisors relied on GPS tracking and community intermediaries to maintain oversight. The impact of these efforts were visible almost immediately. Teams were more confident, better prepared, and more accountable. Communities were more receptive, seeing familiar faces and respected figures at the helm of the campaign. Data flowed in real-time, allowing for swift adjustments and targeted interventions. Most importantly, Children were vaccinated and noncompliant cases were reported and resolved where possible. While high success rates were recorded, there were also challenges such as logistics in remote and hard-to-reach LGAs. Travel distances and poor road networks delayed team movements and disrupted planned schedules. Some ICSs were also unable to reach their assigned wards due to security concerns, leaving gaps in supervision and accountability. However, these setbacks became learning curves, feeding into a cycle of continuous improvement and laid the groundwork for a more resilient, community-centered approach to public health.

Movement Across West African News release Most Nigerians support free trade and open borders for work and trade within West Africa, but in reality, crossing borders remains difficult, Afrobarometer’s latest survey shows. Eight in 10 Nigerians would prefer the government to make it easier to trade with other countries, including more than two-thirds who would prefer open trade with all countries worldwide. And seven in 10 say people in West Africa should be able to move freely across international borders to trade or work in other countries. Yet nearly two-thirds of Nigerians say crossing international borders is “difficult” or “very difficult.” Key findings   Most Nigerians support free trade with the rest of the world: Four-fifths (80%) say it is better for the country’s economy if the government makes it easier to trade with other countries, although 18% would prefer to limit international trade to protect Nigerian businesses (Figure 1). If the government wanted to make it easier to trade with other countries, a majority (68%) of citizens would favour open trade with all countries worldwide, rather than limiting it to certain countries. About one-fourth (23%) would privilege African countries for trade, while 5% would prefer that the focus be on countries in West Africa (Figure 2). Seven in 10 citizens (69%) say West Africans should be able to move freely across borders in order to trade or work, while three in 10 (29%) think the government should restrict the cross-border movement of people and goods (Figure 3). Nearly two-thirds (64%) of respondents say that, in practice, crossing international borders is “difficult” or “very difficult” (Figure 4). Afrobarometer Surveys Afrobarometer is a pan-African, non-partisan survey research network that provides reliable data on African experiences and evaluations of democracy, governance, and quality of life. Nine survey rounds in up to 42 countries have been completed since 1999. Round 10 surveys are expected to be completed in mid-2025. Afrobarometer’s national partners conduct face-to-face interviews in the language of the respondent’s choice. The Afrobarometer team in Nigeria, led by NOIPolls, interviewed a nationally representative, random, stratified probability sample of 1,600 adult Nigerians between 19 June and 17 July 2024. A sample of this size yields country-level results with a margin of error of +/-2.5 percentage points at a 95% confidence level. Previous standard surveys were conducted in Nigeria in 2000, 2003, 2005, 2008, 2013, 2015, 2017, 2020, and 2022.   Charts Figure 1: Open trade or limit trade? | by demographic group | Nigeria | 2024 Demographic Representation Respondents were asked: Which of the following statements is closest to your view? Statement 1: It is better for our economy if the government makes it easier for Nigeria to trade with other countries to create economic opportunities. Statement 2: Our country should limit trade with other countries in order to protect Nigerian producers.   Figure 2: Which countries should leaders make it easier to trade with? | Nigeria  | 2024 Countries Trade should be Made Easy Respondents were asked:  If Nigeria’s leaders are going to make it easier to trade with other countries to create economic opportunities, which countries should they make it easier to trade with? Figure 3: Free movement of West Africans | Nigeria | 2024 Movement across West African Countries Respondents were asked:  Which of the following statements is closest to your view?  Statement 1: People living in West Africa should be able to move freely across international borders in order to trade or work in other countries.   Statement 2: In order to protect their own citizens, the Nigerian government should limit the cross-border movement of people and goods.    Figure 4: Difficulty in cross-border movement? | Nigeria | 2024 Difficulty in Cross Border Movement Respondents were asked: In your opinion, how easy or difficult is it for people in West Africa to cross international borders in order to work or trade in other countries, or haven’t you heard enough to say?    For more information, please contact: NOIPolls Raphael Mbaegbu Telephone: +234 63292096 Email: rmbaegbu@noi-polls.com Visit us online at: www.afrobarometer.org www.noi-polls.com   Follow our releases on #VoicesAfrica. Social Handles

Nigeria: Citizens Engagement Scorecard News release Government responsiveness and democratic performance, along with unmet socioeconomic needs, are important drivers of citizen engagement in Africa, a new Afrobarometer flagship report  reveals. Citizens are more likely to participate in political and civic activities if they are satisfied with the way their democracy works, believe that their elections are free and fair ,  and see their local elected officials as responsive to their needs. And contrary to theories and findings from the Global North, Africa’s least-wealthy citizens, and least-wealthy countries, report higher rates of engagement than their better-off counterparts. The report, the second in an annual series on high-priority topics, draws on data spanning the past decade, including the latest round of nationally representative surveys in 39 countries, representing the views of more than three-fourths of the continent’s population. The analysis focuses on key indicators of citizen engagement: voting, political party affiliation, political discussion, attending community meetings, joining with others to raise an issue, contacting leaders, and protesting. The findings, based on 53,444 face-to-face interviews, show that most Africans participate in multiple political and civic activities, with voting being the predominant form of engagement and protesting being the least common. But gaps exist, especially among youth and women. Poorer, less educated, and rural Africans tend to participate more in political and civic activities than their wealthier, more educated, and urban counterparts. The report also shows that across 30 countries surveyed consistently over the past decade, participation levels are declining for attending community meetings, raising issues, and identifying with a political party, but they are increasing for contacting leaders. The new flagship report is accompanied by country scorecards  on citizen engagement that provide an at-a-glance snapshot of the key indicators of citizen participation at the national level for each of the surveyed countries. Among the 39 countries surveyed, Nigeria  is one of the few countries that stand out as having consistently high levels of participation across many, if not all, indicators. Afrobarometer survey Afrobarometer is a pan-African, non-partisan survey research network that provides reliable data on African experiences and evaluations of democracy, governance, and quality of life. Nine survey rounds in up to 42 countries have been completed since 1999. Round 9 surveys (2021/2023) cover 39 countries. Afrobarometer’s national partners conduct face-to-face interviews in the language of the respondent’s choice. National samples of 1,200-2,400 yield country-level results with margins of error of +/-2 to +/-3 percentage points at a 95% confidence level. Key findings The scope of political and civic participation Nearly three-quarters (72%) of Africans voted in their country’s last national election preceding the Afrobarometer Round 9 survey (Figure 1). o    Four in 10 (41%) “feel close to” a political party . o    More than six in 10 (62%) “occasionally” or “frequently” discuss politics  with family or friends. o    Almost half (47%) attended a community meeting  at least once during the previous year, ranging from 11% in Tunisia to 85% in Madagascar. o    More than four in 10 (42%)   joined with others to raise an issue  during the previous year. o    More than one-third (37%) contacted  a traditional   leader , 28% a local government councillor , 15% a member of Parliament  (MP), and 20% a political party official  during the previous year. o    About one in 10 respondents (9%) participated in a protest or demonstration during the previous year. Who participates?   The poorest citizens are more likely than the well-off to identify with a political party, attend a community meeting, join with others to raise an issue, and contact traditional leaders, local government councillors, and political party officials, and are about equally likely to vote, protest, discuss politics, and contact MPs (Figure 2). Women continue to engage at substantially lower rates than men across all indicators included in the survey.   Youth (aged 18-35) are less engaged than older generations on all types of political and civic participation except protest; the disparity is largest for voting, where an 18-percentage-point gap separates youth from elders. Compared to citizens with post-secondary education, those with no formal schooling are more likely to vote, to identify with a political party, to attend community meetings, and to contact traditional leaders, and are about equally likely to contact an MP, local government councillor, or political party official. Drivers of democratic attitudes Rates of participation, particularly in attending community meetings and joining with others to raise an issue, are higher in countries with lower levels of economic well-being (Figure 3). Countries where citizens perceive local government councillors as responsive to their needs generally have higher rates of contact with these officials. However, this pattern does not hold for national legislators, who are less accessible to ordinary citizens. Electoral participation is higher in countries where citizens are satisfied with the way democracy works; believe that elections are free, fair, and effective; and feel free to cast their ballots as they wish. In contrast, when these conditions are not present, protests are more common (Figure 4). Charts Figure 1: Ten ways Africans get involved | 39 countries* | 2021/2023 Africans involvement with Governance Respondents were asked: People are not always able to vote in elections. … How about you? In the last national election, held in [year], did you vote, or not, or were you too young to vote? Or can’t you remember whether you voted? (% who say “I voted in the election”; respondents who were too young to vote are excluded.) Do you feel close to any particular political party? (% who say “yes”) When you get together with your friends or family, how often would you say you discuss political matters? (% who say “occasionally” or “frequently”) Here is a list of actions that people sometimes take as citizens. For each of these, please tell me whether you, personally, have done any of these things during the past year: Attended a community meeting? Got together with others to raise an issue? Participated in a demonstration or protest march?  (% who say “once or twice,” “several times,” or “often”) During the past year, how often have you contacted any of the following persons about some important problem or to give them your views: A [local government councillor]? A member of [Parliament]? A political party official? A traditional leader? (% who say “only once,” “a few times,” or “often”) *35 countries for traditional leaders and local government councillors, 36 countries for MPs, 38 countries for party officials   Figure 2: Poverty and citizen engagement | 39 countries* | 2021/2023 Economic Conditions of Citizens involved in Governance Respondents were asked: People are not always able to vote in elections. ... How about you? In the last national election, held in [year], did you vote, or not, or were you too young to vote? Or can’t you remember whether you voted? (% who say “I voted in the election”; respondents who were too young to vote are excluded.) Do you feel close to any particular political party? (% who say “yes”) When you get together with your friends or family, how often would you say you discuss political matters? (% who say “occasionally” or “frequently”) Here is a list of actions that people sometimes take as citizens. For each of these, please tell me whether you, personally, have done any of these things during the past year: Attended a community meeting? Got together with others to raise an issue? Participated in a demonstration or protest march?  (% who say “once or twice,” “several times,” or “often”) During the past year, how often have you contacted any of the following persons about some important problem or to give them your views: A [local government councillor]? A member of [Parliament]? A political party official? A traditional leader? (% who say “only once,” “a few times,” or “often”) *35 countries for traditional leaders and local government councillors, 36 countries for MPs, 38 countries for party officials   Figure 3: Socioeconomic conditions and participation | 35-39 countries* | 2021/2023 Participation and Social Economic Conditions Figure shows Pearson’s correlation coefficients. * Results do not include countries where certain questions were not asked: “Contacted local government councillor” (Angola, Liberia, São Tomé and Príncipe, Seychelles) and “Contacted MP” (Burkina Faso, Guinea, Sudan). Figure 4: Democratic performance and participation | 35-39 countries* | 2021/2023 Democratic Performance and Participation Figure shows Pearson’s correlation coefficients. * Results do not include countries where question was not asked: “Contacted local government councillor” (Angola, Liberia, São Tomé and Príncipe, Seychelles), "Contacted MP" (Burkina Faso, Guinea, Sudan), and "Trust local government" (Angola, Seychelles).     For more information, please contact: NOIPolls Raphael Mbaegbu Telephone: +234 63292096 Email: rmbaegbu@noi-polls.com     Visit us online at www.afrobarometer.org . Follow our releases on #VoicesAfrica. www.noi-polls.com Social Media Handles

Approval rating for the government slips two points to 36% in June 2025, down from 38% in May.

On 30th June 2025, NOIPolls, the National Partner for Afrobarometer in Nigeria, paid a courtesy visit to Mrs. Amina Oyagbola, the newly elected Chair of the Afrobarometer Board, at her chamber in Lagos. NOIPolls CEO, Dr Chike Nwangwu, with the newly elected chair of Afrobarometer, Mrs Amina Oyagbola The delegation was led by Dr. Chike Nwangwu, Chief Executive Officer of NOIPolls. The meeting focused on deepening the impact of Afrobarometer and NOIPolls in Nigeria, highlighting the numerous opportunities for engagement with various sectors on Afrobarometer data, particularly within the private sector. NOIPolls social research lead, Raphael Mbaegbu, CEO, Dr Chike Nwangwu, Afrobarometer chair, Mrs Amina Oyagbola, head of corporate communications Nelly Ohuche, and director of research Peter Oshaji Discussing NOIPolls' experience as Afrobarometer’s national partner, Mrs. Oyagbola graciously offered her insights on leveraging connections across key sectors—including government, private organizations, media, and civil society — to increase visibility for Afrobarometer activities in Nigeria. She also emphasized the importance of not only disseminating data but also shaping narratives through strategic communication with media outlets and key stakeholders. NOIPolls team presenting findings of a survey on democracy at a courtesy visit on Afrobarometer new chair Amina Oyagbola The team presented selected findings on democracy and gender, which demonstrated the depth and utility of Afrobarometer data. It was agreed that greater efforts should be made to promote public access to this data through the Afrobarometer website, particularly for academic research and policy development. NOIPolls team presenting findings of a survey on democracy at a courtesy visit on Afrobarometer new chair Amina Oyagbola Overall, the meeting was highly engaging and productive.

Infographics An overwhelming majority of Nigerians say abduction and kidnapping are grave national problems, with many expressing deep concerns about their personal safety and the inability of security agencies to address the crisis, the latest Afrobarometer survey reveals. Citizens rank crime/insecurity as one of the most important problems they want the government to address. Many report feeling unsafe in their communities and personally knowing someone who has been kidnapped in recent years, and public confidence in the ability of security agencies to respond effectively to these incidents is low. Citizens identify improved economic opportunities, stronger security forces, and harsher penalties as the top solutions to the abduction/kidnapping crisis. Key findings Crime/insecurity ranks second among the most important problems that Nigerians want their government to address (Figure 1). The share of citizens who say they or a family member felt unsafe walking in their neighbourhood at least once during the previous year almost doubled between 2017 and 2022, from 33% to 61% (Figure 2). In response to a similar question in the 2024 survey, 63% of respondents say they or a family member felt unsafe at home or in their neighborhood at least once during the past year. Eight out of 10 Nigerians (79%) say abduction/kidnapping is a serious problem in the country, including nearly half (48%) who say the problem is “very serious” (Figure 3). One-third (33%) of respondents say they personally know someone who has been abducted or kidnapped in the past five years (Figure 4). About two-thirds (68%) of citizens say security agencies are handling the abduction/kidnapping of Nigerians “fairly badly” or “very badly” (Figure 5). Asked what they think is the most important solution to the problem of abductions and kidnappings, respondents most frequently cite increasing economic opportunities for all citizens (31%), enhancing the capacity of the country’s security agencies (26%), and imposing stiffer punishments, ranging up to the death penalty, for perpetrators (22%) (Figure 6). Afrobarometer surveys Afrobarometer is a pan-African, non-partisan survey research network that provides reliable data on African experiences and evaluations of democracy, governance, and quality of life. Nine survey rounds in up to 42 countries have been completed since 1999. Round 10 surveys were launched in January 2024. Afrobarometer’s national partners conduct face-to-face interviews in the language of the respondent’s choice. The Afrobarometer team in Nigeria, led by NOIPolls, interviewed a nationally representative, random, stratified probability sample of 1,600 adult Nigerians between 19 June and 17 July 2024. A sample of this size yields country-level results with a margin of error of +/-2.5 percentage points at a 95% confidence level. Previous standard surveys were conducted in Nigeria in 2000, 2003, 2005, 2008, 2012, 2015, 2017, 2020, and 2022. Charts Figure 1: Most important problems | Nigeria | 2024 Important Problems facing Nigeria Respondents were asked: In your opinion, what are the most important problems facing this country that government should address? (Up to three responses per person; figure shows % of respondents who cite each problem as one of their top three priorities.) Figure 2: Felt unsafe walking in the neighborhood | Nigeria | 2015-2022 Perception on neighborhood safety Respondents were asked:  Over the past year, how often, if ever, have you or anyone in your family felt unsafe walking in your neighborhood? (% who say “just once or twice,” “several times,” “many times,” or “always”) Figure 3: How serious a problem are abductions and kidnappings? | Nigeria | 2024 Severity of Kidnapping and Abductions Respondents were asked:   In your opinion, how serious a problem are the abductions or kidnapping of citizens in our country today? Figure 4: Personal knowledge of abduction/kidnapping victim | Nigeria | 2024 Knowledge of Kidnapping/Abduction Victims Respondents were asked: Do you personally know anyone who has been abducted or kidnapped in the past five years? Figure 5: Assessment of security agencies' handling of kidnappings | Nigeria | 2024  Assessment of Security Agencies Respondents were asked:   How well or badly would you say the security agencies are handling the kidnapping or abductions of Nigerian citizens? Figure 6: Most important solution to the problem of kidnapping | Nigeria | 2024 Addressing Insecurity Respondents were asked:  Which of the following would you say is the most important way to solve the problem of kidnapping and abductions in Nigeria today?   For more information, please contact: NOIPolls Raphael Mbaegbu Telephone: +234 63292096 Email: rmbaegbu@noi-polls.com   Visit us online at: www.afrobarometer.org www.noi-polls.com   Follow our releases on #VoicesAfrica. Social Handles