Threads vs. X (Twitter) in Nigeria: Which One Is Winning?

“Social media platforms rise and fall, but the real winner is the one that keeps users engaged.”

Introduction

Social media is a big deal in Nigeria. People use it for news, entertainment, and making money. But with the rise of Threads, many are asking if X (formerly Twitter) still holds the crown.

Threads, launched by Meta, is a text-based platform linked to Instagram. It came in hot, with millions signing up in the first few days. But is it strong enough to replace X?

X has been in Nigeria for years. It has survived bans, controversies, and competition. Many users rely on it for real-time updates and conversations.

So, which platform is winning? Let’s break it down.

The Technology Behind Threads and X

Threads: How It Works

• Built by Meta, linked to Instagram.
  
  
• Focuses on text-based conversations.
  
  
• Simple interface with no trending topics or hashtags.
  
  
• Posts appear in a feed, but no chronological timeline.
  
  
• No direct messaging feature (yet).

X: How It Works

• Originally Twitter, now rebranded as X.
  
  
• Allows text posts, images, videos, and live spaces.
  
  
• Features trending topics, hashtags, and real-time updates.
  
  
• Offers direct messaging and monetization options.
  
  
• Algorithm-based and chronological timelines available.

User Base and Popularity in Nigeria

Threads: The New Challenger

• Millions of Nigerians joined at launch, thanks to Instagram.
  
  
• Less political and controversial content compared to X.
  
  
• Missing key features like trending topics.
  
  
• Many users returned to X after initial excitement.

X: The Established Giant

• Strong presence in Nigeria, especially among influencers and businesses.
  
  
• Used for breaking news, trends, and activism.
  
  
• Offers more features that encourage engagement.
  
  
• Retains loyal users despite competition.

Applications and Use Cases

How Nigerians Use Threads

• Casual conversations and lifestyle discussions.
  
  
• Brands using it for customer engagement.
  
  
• Less political debates and controversial topics.
  
  
• A quieter space compared to X.

How Nigerians Use X

• News updates and political discussions.
  
  
• Influencers and businesses promoting content.
  
  
• Activism and social movements.
  
  
• Real-time reactions to events.

Read: https://abiodunapoeso.com/social-media-usage-in-nigeria/

Each Platform Benefits

Benefits of Threads

• Easy to use, especially for Instagram users.
  
  
• Less toxic environment, fewer trolls.
  
  
• Good for brands that want a clean image.
  
  
• Integrated with Instagram for easy sharing.

Benefits of X

• Real-time updates on news and trends.
  
  
• Established audience for businesses and influencers.
  
  
• More features like Spaces and monetization.
  
  
• Global reach and visibility.

Read: https://abiodunapoeso.com/facebook-vs-tiktok-for-nigerian-businesses/

Each Platform Limitations

Threads Limitations

• No trending topics, making discovery harder.
  
  
• No direct messaging feature.
  
  
• Feels like an Instagram extension rather than a standalone app.
  
  
• Many users post less due to lack of engagement.

Limitations of X

• More toxic and politically charged.
  
  
• Algorithm changes affect visibility.
  
  
• Some users dislike the rebranding from Twitter to X.
  
  
• Paid verification system creates inequalities.

Read: https://abiodunapoeso.com/whatsapp-marketing-in-nigeria/

Future Potential in Nigeria

What’s Next for Threads?

• Needs trending topics and hashtags to compete.
  
  
• Direct messaging could improve engagement.
  
  
• More features could bring back users.
  
  
• If Instagram remains popular, Threads could grow.

What’s Next for X?

• Monetization features may attract more creators.
  
  
• AI-driven improvements could boost user experience.
  
  
• More changes could either help or hurt engagement.
  
  
• Stronger push for Nigerian content and local trends.

Read: https://abiodunapoeso.com/instagram-shopping-in-africa/

The Verdict: Which One Is Winning?

Right now, X still holds the lead in Nigeria. It has more features, better engagement, and a loyal user base.

Threads had a strong start but needs improvements to keep users active. If Meta adds missing features, it could challenge X in the future.

For now, Nigerians seem to be sticking with X for news and trends while using Threads for casual conversations.