As Google Remembers Bobrisky, Beta Edu, And Shallipopi, What’ll It Remember You For?, by Isaac Asabor

As Google unveiled its “2024 Year in Search” for Nigeria, the trends tell a fascinating story. Personalities like Bobrisky, Beta Edu, and Shallipopi topped the search charts, alongside questions about the exchange rate, global elections, and lyrics to trending songs. These searches provide a lens into what captivated Nigerians’ minds this year. They reflect our interests, our curiosity, and even our collective concerns as a society.

But beyond the curiosity of the moment, the question remains: what will Google remember you for? The digital footprints we leave behind today tell a story, one that will outlive us and continue to define us long after we are gone. In an era where technology immortalizes our actions, what legacy are you leaving?

In today’s digital age, the internet, particularly search engines like Google, has become the ultimate keeper of records. For better or worse, it captures the essence of our lives through what we search, share, and create. From breaking news to viral controversies, our actions, whether private or public, leave traces online. These traces shape how we are perceived and remembered.

For some, these footprints reflect creativity, impact, and inspiration. They tell stories of entrepreneurs building solutions, artists sharing beauty, and leaders driving positive change. For others, they are marred by scandal, dishonesty, or fleeting fame. The choice of how you are remembered is yours to make.

Against the foregoing viewpoints, the fact that Google’s 2024 Year in Search serves as a Mirror of Society cannot be pooh-poohed.  This is as the personalities and topics topping Google’s trending searches in Nigeria this year offer an insightful snapshot of society. Bobrisky, a controversial figure, led the search trends, reflecting a mix of admiration, curiosity, and critique. Shallipopi and Khaid, two musicians gaining significant traction, highlight the power of entertainment in shaping culture. Meanwhile, searches about the dollar-to-naira exchange rate and the U.S. elections underscore Nigerians’ deep concerns about the economy and global politics.

These trends show us what matters to people at a particular moment in time. However, they also raise a critical question: How will the actions that brought these individuals and topics to the spotlight be remembered years from now? Will they remain symbols of inspiration or derision, or will they fade into obscurity or notoriety?

In fact, as Nigerians searched for entertainment, politics, and cultural milestones, it is worth asking: How do we ensure that what Google remembers us for reflects integrity, honesty, and a legacy we can be proud of? The digital world is unforgiving. It records our triumphs and failures, our wisdom and our errors, in equal measure. In this context, living a life of integrity becomes not just a moral obligation but a necessity for crafting a lasting and positive legacy.

Your online and offline actions today are shaping your digital narrative. What stories about you will someone discover in five, ten, or twenty years? Will it reflect a person who uplifted others, contributed meaningfully, or stood for values like honesty and integrity? Or will it tell a story of controversy, deceit, or fleeting fame?

To answer the foregoing questions, it is germane to opine that everyone, particularly as the curtain of 2025 is in the next few weeks about to be drawn open, should endeavor to be living a life worth remembering.

In fact, to live a life that leaves the right imprint, there are few guiding principles which everyone need to adopt. The principles cut across upholding integrity, impacting one’s community, thinking beyond fame, being responsible online and pursuing lifelong learning. 

Against the backdrop of the foregoing, it is germane to opine that it is expedient for us to let honesty and ethical behavior be guiding our decisions. In a world filled with quick fixes and shortcuts, integrity always stands the test of time. Being known for your honesty and fairness is far more valuable than momentary fame built on dishonesty.

In a similar vein, it is expedient each and every one us imbibe the habit of impact wherever community we find ourselves.  Against the foregoing backdrop, it is contextually apt to say, “Be a force for good in your community”. Whether it is through mentorship, charity, or simply spreading positivity, these are the actions that build lasting legacies. Imagine being remembered for the lives you have touched and the difference you have made, this is true greatness.

Thirdly, it is worthwhile for everyone to be thinking beyond fame. The reason for the foregoing advice cannot be farfetched as fame without substance fades quickly. Rather than chasing trends, work on being remembered for values, contributions, and kindness. What matters is not how many people know your name but what they associate it with.

Fourthly, be responsible online. Your digital footprint matters. Before posting, sharing, or engaging online, ask yourself, “Would I be proud if this defined me forever?” The internet doesn’t forget, and a single thoughtless action can define you for years.

It is also expedient for us to pursue lifelong learning. Without a doubt, the search trends this year highlight Nigerians’ curiosity and desire to learn. Embrace this mindset. Pursue personal growth, knowledge, and skills that not only enrich your life but also inspire others.

In fact, the individuals and topics topping Google’s search trends this year offer valuable lessons. While some gained attention for talent and creativity, others were searched for reasons that may not inspire admiration. These lessons remind us that while fame can be accidental, legacy is intentional.

Consider figures in history who are remembered not just for their achievements but for their character. Mahatma Gandhi is remembered for his principles of nonviolence and equality. Mother Teresa’s legacy is one of compassion and service. These individuals lived with the awareness that their actions were shaping their legacy.

In contrast, there are those whose legacies are tainted by dishonesty, selfishness, or harm to others. The internet immortalizes these as cautionary tales. They remind us of the dangers of living solely for personal gain or fleeting popularity.

Given the foregoing view, it is not out of place to ask, “What will Google remember about you?” The question is not just rhetorical; it is deeply personal. Each of us has a responsibility to shape the narrative of our lives, both online and offline. When someone searches for your name on Google years from now, what will they find? Will they see a story of someone who made a difference, who stood for integrity, and who left the world better than they found it? Or will they see a tale of missed opportunities, controversy, or regret?

You have the power to choose how you are remembered. By living a life of purpose, kindness, and honesty, you can ensure that your legacy inspires others and stands the test of time.

As we reflect on Google’s “2024 Year in Search” and the stories it tells, let us also reflect on our own lives. The internet is a powerful tool that can amplify both good and bad. Use it wisely. Live with the awareness that your actions, big or small, will one day form your legacy.

In the end, fame fades, but values endure. Ask yourself: What will Google remember me for? Let your life be a testament to integrity, compassion, and purpose, ensuring that your story is one worth telling and remembering.