Nigerian artists lack of support criticism emerges as Konga urges younger stars to support industry legends and revive veteran careers
Veteran Nigerian singer Kingsley Chinweike Okonkwo, popularly known as Konga, has criticised what he described as a growing lack of support from contemporary Nigerian artists towards industry veterans, calling for stronger unity and financial backing within the music community.
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Speaking on a recent episode of the Hits Don’t Lie podcast, Konga expressed concern over what he termed the Nigerian artists lack of support criticism, arguing that many established stars are not doing enough to uplift pioneers who helped shape the country’s music industry.
The Kabakaba crooner said younger artistes should adopt a more responsible and respectful approach towards industry legends.
Konga specifically referenced Afrobeats superstar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, suggesting that the N200 million raised by friends and fans during his 2021 birthday celebration could have been directed towards supporting struggling music veterans rather than being donated entirely to orphanages.
Davido had also contributed an additional N50 million of his own funds, bringing the total to N250 million, which was distributed across 292 orphanages nationwide.
According to Konga, channeling such resources towards ageing or struggling artistes could have helped revive their careers and provided renewed visibility for their contributions to the industry.
He argued that several legendary figures have been forced into menial jobs abroad due to insufficient support from within the entertainment ecosystem.
He cited names such as Baba Fryo, Daddy Showkey and Lord of Ajasa as examples of artistes who, in his view, deserve greater recognition and financial assistance.
Konga maintained that a targeted intervention could have produced a powerful cultural resurgence, potentially leading to comeback projects from veteran musicians.
The singer also reflected on the broader narrative around Nigerian music’s global success, noting that earlier generations, including icons like Fela Anikulapo Kuti, King Sunny Ade and Majek Fashek, had already taken Nigerian music to international audiences decades ago.
He stressed that current achievements are built on the foundation laid by these pioneers.
Konga’s remarks highlight ongoing conversations within the entertainment industry about legacy, recognition and responsibility, as well as the balance between celebrating present-day success and preserving the contributions of earlier generations.
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While opinions remain divided, his comments add to a growing debate on how best to support ageing artistes in Nigeria’s evolving music landscape, where commercial success continues to expand even as questions of heritage and welfare persist.
Mariam Balogun is a contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
