Nigerian rapper Erigga has voiced his disappointment over what he describes as the growing preference of Nigerians for foreign artistes over homegrown talent. Speaking during an interview on Yanga FM, the Warri-born musician criticized the culture of giving more attention to international recognition than to local achievements.
Erigga cited the relocation of the Headies Awards to the United States as an example of this trend, describing it as a reflection of Nigerians’ lack of appreciation for their own entertainment industry. He argued that despite Nigeria’s abundance of talent and large fanbase, people often glorify foreign performers instead of supporting local ones.
“Nigerians no dey value their own,” Erigga said. “The average Nigerian go rather show 300 people wey dey dance for London than 5,000 people wey attend concert for Nigeria. We prefer to promote what is outside instead of appreciating what we have.”
The rapper added that the problem stems from a “disconnect” in how Nigerians view success, emphasizing that real progress in the entertainment industry can only happen when locals support local. He noted that other countries like the UK and the US take pride in their artists and celebrate them globally — something Nigerians should learn to do.
He also shared that some fans pressure him to rap in English, but he prefers to stay true to his style and background. “Sometimes people tell me, ‘Erigga, do one English rap for me,’ and I go tell them, I no be English professor. I dey talk to the people wey understand me for street,” he said.
