Femi Kuti Urges Nigerians to Stay, Fight for a Better Nation, Not ‘Japa

Music icon Femi Kuti advises Nigerian youths to cancel their ‘japa’ plans, urging them to stay and fight for a better Nigeria.

Famed musician Femi Kuti has urged young Nigerians to remain in their country and work towards its improvement rather than seeking opportunities abroad.

At the 2024 Felebration festival, Kuti highlighted that developed regions such as Europe and America had to fight for their freedom, pointing out their histories of civil wars and struggles.

He emphasized that the youth of Nigeria should acknowledge their duty to enhance their own nation.

Kuti pointed out that renowned landmarks, such as the Fela Shrine, were constructed in Africa rather than overseas. He also highlighted that individuals with dual citizenship contribute to Nigeria’s development, using his son Made Kuti as an example.

He mentioned, “People have been asking me if I’m planning to ‘japa.’ Japa to where?”

Let me share something about Europe with you. You see, what made Europe great isn’t that they ran away from challenges; instead, they fought bravely. For centuries, Europeans were engaged in numerous civil wars and conflicts among themselves. Similarly, America experienced one of the most devastating civil wars in history—a legacy that’s reflected today in how Americans still hold on to their right to carry guns.

We need to recognize that we must remain and advocate for the improvement of this nation we cherish. The Fela Shrine wasn’t constructed in Los Angeles or London; it was established right here in Africa. Keep your wits about you because this country relies on us all.

“Made is a British citizen, but where could he be? He’s in Nigeria and nowhere else. What’s his purpose there? If he’s called for work, he’d go to perform and then return. Who will take over the shrine? I’m looking to retire.”