Afrobeat icon and Grammy-nominated musician Femi Kuti has urged young Nigerians to reconsider plans to leave the country, advocating instead for them to stay and contribute to making Nigeria a better place. Speaking at the 2024 Felabration festival, Kuti stressed the importance of commitment to nation-building, drawing comparisons with the historical struggles of nations like those in Europe and America, which faced civil wars on their paths to progress and freedom.
Kuti highlighted the responsibility of Nigeria’s youth to be part of the solution, rather than seeking opportunities elsewhere. He pointed out that iconic cultural landmarks, such as the Fela Shrine, were built in Nigeria, despite global connections, underscoring the significance of local impact. Using his son, Made Kuti, as an example, he emphasized that even those with dual citizenship can remain dedicated to their homeland.
“People ask me, ‘Why don’t you want to leave, to japa?’ Japa to where?” Kuti remarked. “Let me tell you about Europe—do you think they became great by running away? No, they fought. Europe went through hundreds of civil wars. America had one of the bloodiest civil wars, which is why even today, Americans still carry guns.”
He encouraged Nigerians to realize the need for unity and action at home. “We must stay and fight for a country we love. The Fela Shrine wasn’t built in London or Los Angeles—it’s right here in Africa. This country depends on you, so get your senses together.”
Kuti also mentioned his son’s unwavering loyalty to Nigeria, adding, “Made is a British citizen, but where is he? Right here in Nigeria. If they call him for work abroad, he’ll go, perform, and come back. Who’s going to take over the shrine? I want to retire.”
Femi Kuti’s words serve as a rallying call for young Nigerians to invest in their country’s future rather than seeking an escape.
