Rapper and songwriter Erigga has expressed frustration over Nigerians’ preference for foreign entertainers while neglecting homegrown talent.
Speaking during a recent interview with Yanga FM, the Warri-born artiste lamented that many Nigerians celebrate international recognition more than achievements within the country.
He said it was disappointing that events like The Headies had to relocate abroad because of the lack of adequate appreciation for Nigerian creativity.
‘Our own no dey sweet us again’
According to him, people often prefer to highlight smaller audiences abroad rather than celebrate massive crowds supporting artistes at home.
He said, “Nigerians don’t regard their own. The average Nigerian prefers to show you 300 people in London over 5,000 people vibing to local talent in Warri or Lagos.”
‘Music should be for everyone’ – Erigga urges support for local sound
The rapper urged Nigerians to embrace and support indigenous artistes the same way foreign audiences celebrate theirs.
He added that authenticity and culture should not be compromised for acceptance, saying that he uses music to educate people from his environment.
“Sometimes people say, ‘Erigga, rap in English,’ and I tell them, shey I be English professor? I dey speak to the people I represent,” he said.
