Nigerians Prefer TikTok for News Over Traditional Media

In Nigeria, the consumption of news is shifting from traditional media outlets to platforms like TikTok, where brief videos can quickly convey information about political developments and major events. The Reuters Institute’s Digital News Report 2026 indicates that Nigeria has a rapidly growing digital audience, with 109 million internet users and 47.8 million social media users by the end of 2025.

TikTok's advertising data suggests a potential reach of 47.8 million adults aged 18 and above in Nigeria, marking a 43.4% increase from the end of 2024. The platform's format allows creators to present complex issues in an engaging manner, appealing particularly to younger audiences.

While traditional media still plays a crucial role, the way news is discovered is evolving, with many first encountering stories on TikTok before seeking confirmation from established news sources. This trend presents both opportunities and challenges, as the speed of social media can lead to the rapid spread of unverified information.