‘Don’t Japa! Stay And Fight For Nigeria’ – Femi Kuti Tells Youth

Grammy-nominated Afrobeat musician, Femi Kuti, has called on young Nigerians to reconsider their plans to emigrate and instead work towards improving their homeland.

During the 2024 Felebration festival, Kuti highlighted the importance of staying and contributing to Nigeria, drawing parallels with the histories of developed nations like those in Europe and America, which achieved their freedoms through struggles and civil wars.

Kuti emphasized the responsibility of Nigeria’s youth to foster change within the country.

He pointed out that significant cultural sites, such as the Fela Shrine, were established in Africa, showcasing the importance of local contributions, even from those with dual citizenship.

He cited his son, Made Kuti, as an example of someone who, despite being a British citizen, remains dedicated to Nigeria.

“People have asked me, ‘Shey you no go japa?’ Japa to where?

“Let me tell you about Europe; you see Europe and what made it great. Do you think they ran away? No, they fought; Europe fought hundreds of civil wars; dem just dey kill themselves. America had one of the worst civil wars in history, which is why till today Americans still carry guns,” Kuti stated.

He urged Nigerians to recognize that they must stay and strive for a country they cherish. “We must understand that we have to stay here and fight for a better country that we love. We did not build the Fela Shrine in Los Angeles or in London; we built it in Africa. Get your senses together because this country depends on you,” he added.

Kuti also mentioned his son’s commitment to Nigeria, stating, “Made is a British citizen but where is he? He is in Nigeria and he cannot be anywhere else. What does he want to do there? If they call him for work, he’d go there to play and come back. Who would take over the shrine? I want to retire.”