Nigerian music superstar Davido has come under fire following comments he made during a recent interview about the state of Nigeria’s economy. The artist candidly described the economic challenges the country is facing, including issues with the exchange rate, high oil prices, and poor leadership, sparking a wave of reactions online and in the media.
In the interview, Davido admitted that while he showcases the beauty of Nigeria in his content, he cannot ignore the harsh realities of the country’s economic situation. “My country now… the economy is in shambles,” he said. He further criticized the paradox of Nigeria being an oil-producing nation but still having citizens pay higher prices for oil than countries that import it.
Despite his criticism, Davido emphasized his role as an ambassador for Nigeria, highlighting how the entertainment industry continues to present a positive image of Africa to the world. “Entertainment is one of the things that’s made Africa look good,” he noted.
However, his remarks drew backlash from TVC presenter Akashat Ny’mat, who accused him of being “irresponsible” and using his platform to discourage foreign investment in Nigeria. Ny’mat argued that Davido, as a privileged dual citizen with influence, should focus on promoting the country rather than pointing out its flaws publicly. She stated, “No matter how true your truth is, own your truth if it is not going to be of service to your people.”
The debate has reignited discussions on the responsibilities of celebrities and influencers in shaping the global narrative about their home countries, particularly during times of economic difficulty. While some have defended Davido’s honesty, others believe his comments could harm efforts to attract investment and improve the country’s image on the international stage.
The controversy underscores the delicate balance between speaking truth to power and protecting the reputation of one’s nation.
