Bobrisky, Nwabali, Betta Edu Top Nigeria’s Google Searches in 2024
Google has unveiled its 2024 Year in Search for Nigeria, revealing the topics and personalities that captured Nigerians’ attention this year. The report highlights the names and events that dominated search trends, from entertainment to politics and sports.
Bobrisky: The Most Searched Nigerian in 2024
Popular cross-dresser Bobrisky (Okuneye Idris Olarenwaju) topped the list of most-searched Nigerians. This surge in interest stemmed from a series of high-profile incidents involving the socialite.
In April, Bobrisky was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for alleged naira abuse, leading to a six-month prison sentence. Public curiosity soared over debates about the prison accommodations provided for the socialite. Rumors suggested he enjoyed privileges like frequent visits, a private cell, a humidifier, a fridge, and even a phone.
The intrigue continued in October when Bobrisky was detained by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) at the Seme border while allegedly attempting to leave the country. His subsequent transfer to the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) in Lagos sparked another wave of interest.
Beta Edu: Scandal and Suspension Spark Searches
Former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Beta Edu, also ranked high on the search list. Known for her role as a medical doctor-turned-politician, Edu served briefly in President Tinubu’s administration before being suspended in January 2024. Her suspension followed allegations of a ₦585 million scandal, drawing public attention.
Despite rumors of a potential comeback, the controversy surrounding her tenure kept her in the spotlight.
Stanley Nwabali: A Hero in Sports
Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali became a national sensation during the 2024 African Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire. Although Nigeria lost the final to the host nation, Nwabali’s remarkable saves earned him widespread admiration.
Tragedy also struck the athlete this year, with the passing of his father prompting Nigerians to search for more about his life and career.
Trending Topics and Cultural Highlights
The report also shed light on other popular searches in 2024:
- Music: Songs like “I Don’t Care” by Boy Spyce, “Ozeba”, and “Commas” by Ayra captivated Nigerian audiences, with many searching for lyrics.
- Politics: Topics like the US elections, the new national anthem, and the national grid dominated news-related searches.
- Entertainment: Movies like “A Tribe Called Judah” and TV series such as “Supacell” and “Queen of Tears” were widely searched.
- Food: Nigerians explored recipes, with “Pornstar Martini recipe” leading culinary searches.
Google’s Communications Manager for West Africa, Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, noted, “The 2024 Year in Search reflects the moments and interests that shaped Nigerians’ lives this year, showcasing how Search continues to help people navigate and understand the world.”
From celebrity dramas to national events, 2024 was a year of curiosity and discovery for Nigerians online.
