Erigga says Nigerians celebrate foreign entertainers more than local stars despite huge home support.
He urges fans to value homegrown talent and embrace the unique style Nigerian artists bring proudly.
Nigerian rapper Erigga has expressed disappointment over what he describes as a widespread preference for foreign entertainers over homegrown talent.
Speaking during an interview with Yanga FM, the Warri-born artist reacted to the Headies Awards relocating to the United States, arguing that the move reflects a deeper cultural issue. He noted that many Nigerians appear to value international recognition more than local success, even though the country boasts a vibrant entertainment industry with massive audiences.
“Nigerians have this attitude when it comes to our own; we don’t regard our own,” he said. “The average Nigerian prefers to show you 300 people dancing in London than 5,000 people attending a concert in Nigeria.”
Erigga urged fans to celebrate local music and appreciate the unique identity Nigerian artists bring to their craft. He pointed out that foreign audiences support their own creatives, while Nigerians often demand artists adjust their style to please outsiders.
“Sometimes people be like, ‘Erigga, do one English rap for me,’ and I’m like, shey me na English professor? I dey educate people wey I meet for street,” he added.
