Cultural differences, limited economic ties, and negative stereotypes about Africa and Nigeria have been identified as the main factors responsible for Americans’ lack of interest in Nigerian politics.
This is according to a survey on the theme “American disinterest in Nigerian politics: a glaring picture”, conducted by Market Trend International (MTI), a research agency.
The survey aimed to investigate the interests of United States citizens in the Nigerian political space, particularly in relation to the recently held presidential elections on February 25, 2023.
The analysis therefore reads as follows: “Using a national sample distributed across the following US regions: Northeast, Midwest, West and South, a total number of 1,003 respondents participated in the survey. In addition to collecting demographic responses, the survey also asked respondents to indicate whether they thought the national elections held in Nigeria in February were free and democratic or not; and whether they had a good, bad or indifference opinion of the newly elected President.
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“A glaring “picture” that echoes the table above is the excessive rate of “I don’t know” responses given to both questions, regardless of region, age group, gender distribution, number children, educational status, household income, among others. thus making the findings of the investigation inconclusive.
“Although Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa and has enormous potential for growth and development, it is surprising that the United States does not prioritize these countries as much as others due to lack of direct impact on national security and the economy. interests.”
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Describing Americans’ lack of awareness and understanding of Nigerian politics as a problem that must be addressed, the survey said: “It is important to find ways to increase public awareness and understanding of developments policies in Nigeria, for example through educational programs and media coverage.
On the other hand, he stressed the need for the media to pay close attention to Nigerian politics. He added that such an effort would increase awareness of Nigerian politics among citizens of other countries.
