Nigerian comedian and filmmaker Ayo Makun (AY) has issued a strong warning to Nigerians about the dangers of comparing themselves to celebrities and influencers on social media. He said that much of what people admire online is fake and staged to create false impressions of success.

In a heartfelt video shared on his Instagram page on Thursday, AY explained that social media has become a platform where people project illusions of wealth, happiness, and luxury. He said many celebrities and content creators go to great lengths to appear successful, even when they are struggling behind the scenes.

According to the comedian, some people borrow clothes, wigs, and even cars just to look rich online. Others take photos in hotel lobbies or luxury apartments and pretend they are their homes. AY compared social media to a movie set, where everything is carefully arranged to deceive the audience.

“Many of these celebrities you envy are living on borrowed wigs, borrowed outfits, and borrowed lifestyles,” AY said. “Some take pictures in hotel lobbies and call them their new homes, while others pose with cars that don’t belong to them. Social media is like a movie set; not everything you see online is real.”

He urged his followers to avoid falling into the trap of social media comparison, reminding them that personal growth and genuine happiness matter more than online appearances. AY concluded by advising Nigerians to “grow at their own pace, live simply, and stay true to themselves.”