Libya, Congo, nine other African countries where people are happier than Nigerians

THE GUARDIAN

Nigeria has dropped three places in the latest World Happiness Report (2025), ranking 105th globally and 12th in Africa.

This means there are 11 African countries where people feel happier than Nigerians.

So, what makes them happier? And what can Nigeria learn from them?

The 11 African countries happier than Nigeria

According to the report, these African nations ranked higher than Nigeria:

Mauritius (78th globally)
Libya (79th)
Algeria (84th)
South Africa (95th)
Mozambique (96th)
Gabon (97th)
Côte d’Ivoire (98th)
Congo (100th)
Guinea (102nd)
Namibia (103rd)
Cameroon (104th)

Why are they happier?

The report focused on social trust, community bonds, and overall well-being, not just wealth.

1. Stronger communities
People in these countries feel more supported by family and friends. A sense of belonging and shared responsibility makes life easier.

2. Close family ties
The happiest households have four to five people living together. In many of these countries, family ties remain strong.

3. A culture of trust
People in happier countries tend to trust each other more. If you lose your wallet, the chances of getting it back are higher in these places.

4. Social support matters
Many Nigerians feel alone in their struggles. The report found that having someone to rely on is a key factor in happiness.

Nigeria: From happiest to struggling
Nigeria was once ranked the happiest country in the world in 2011.

Even in 2023, the country was 95th globally, showing a steady decline.

Rising inflation, insecurity, and unemployment have taken a toll on people’s happiness and these have proved it in the report.

Lessons for Nigeria

If these 11 African countries rank higher, what can Nigeria learn?

Build trust: Strengthen social connections and trust in leadership.

Support communities: Encourage stronger family bonds and community-based initiatives.

Prioritise mental well-being: Happiness is more than money, mental health and security matter too.

Nigeria may have dropped in the rankings, but happiness is not lost.

The country just needs to find its way back.

THIS STORY FIRST APPEARED IN THE GUARDIAN