Afrobeats artist Tiwa Savage has opened up about the challenging conditions in Nigeria and how these difficulties are fueling the rise of entertainers in the country. Speaking on the ‘Shopping The Sneakers’ podcast, Savage emphasized that poverty is a significant factor contributing to the large number of artists and entertainers emerging from Nigeria. She noted that many individuals are driven to explore their creative talents as a way to survive and succeed.
Savage highlighted the harsh realities of life in Nigeria, particularly the struggle for survival. “When you come to Nigeria, you will understand why we breed so many superstars. To survive in Nigeria is something else so that’s why the artists that come out of Nigeria are just like hustlers. They are just hustling,” she explained. Her words reflect the resilience of many Nigerian artists, who, despite facing overwhelming challenges, continue to rise and make their mark on the global stage.
The singer went on to explain that the necessity to hustle in Nigeria often leads people, especially the youth, to tap into their creative potential. “It’s difficult to survive in Nigeria,”she said, emphasizing how the harsh economic conditions push young people to find ways to express themselves, often through music, fashion, and entertainment. The ability to survive, she added, is closely linked to creativity, with many individuals turning to the entertainment industry as a path to success.
Nigeria’s entertainment industry, which includes music, film, fashion, and comedy, has become one of the largest in Africa. Savage’s comments speak to the talent emerging from the country in all these sectors, despite the adversities faced by many. The country is home to Nollywood, the second-largest film industry in the world, and a thriving music scene that continues to gain international recognition.
Tiwa Savage’s insights provide a deeper understanding of why Nigerian entertainers are often seen as hustlers, constantly working to make a name for themselves. In a country with high levels of poverty and limited resources, the entertainment industry serves as a platform for many to escape their circumstances and gain global attention.
Her statement also highlights the resilience of the Nigerian people, who find ways to thrive creatively even in the face of economic struggles. “Artists are just hustling,” she reiterated, stressing that the drive for success in Nigeria is rooted in the need to overcome financial hardship and make an impact in the world.
