‘Nigeria Jaga Jaga’ will continue to be second National Anthem, Eedris Abdulkareem

… The seasoned rapper says, "I hope that one day I'll wake up and realize it's no longer relevant."

By Osa Mbonu-Amadi, Editor of Arts

Contentious Nigeria Jaga Jaga, a renowned protest song from 2001, will continue to serve as the nation's unofficial second national anthem until the problems it confronts are rectified, according to Nigerian rapper and activist Eedris Abdulkareem.

In a recent appearance on Channels TV, the artist—who is renowned for his unwavering stand against corruption and social injustice—made the claim as the song gained new traction on TikTok and other social media sites.

"Whether anyone likes it or not, Nigeria Jaga Jaga will remain the second national anthem," he declared. However, I constantly hope that when I wake up one day, the song will no longer be relevant.

That would bring me great joy.

With its unwavering criticism of corruption, bad leadership, and the nation's deteriorating infrastructure, Nigeria Jaga Jaga, which was released 24 years ago, created a nationwide sensation. The song has persisted despite early prohibitions and criticism from government sources, connecting with a new generation of Nigerians going through similar struggles.

"Real progress must be made—continuous power, safety, and capable leadership. The song is still relevant until then. Unfortunately, the song's message still applies to our world 24 years later, Eedris bemoaned.

Regarding His Recently Outlawed Song "Tell Your Papa"

Eedris also talked about how the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) just banned his most recent song, Tell Your Papa, citing it as "Not to be Broadcast" (NTB).

The ruling has drawn criticism and reignited discussions about free expression and censorship in Nigerian music.

Some people think the song is a direct reaction to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's son, Seyi Tinubu. Eedris responded musically to Seyi's fervent defense of his father's government in a widely shared video.

Eedris clarified, "Seyi Tinubu was my inspiration." "He repeatedly stated in the video, 'My father is the greatest president.'" However, I disagree. Although he may be Seyi's best father, Nigerians view him as their worst president.

The rapper contrasted Seyi Tinubu's affluent life with the realities faced by common Nigerians, criticizing the government for widespread economic hardship, insecurity, and youth unemployment.

I advised him to experience the suffering of the people by traveling by road without security. He asserted that Nigerian youths are not want palliatives, but rather necessities like electricity, security, and employment prospects.

Eedris maintained that the song just contains facts and no insults in spite of the criticism.

"If you pay close attention, I don't offend him at all in the song. I just told the truth. I answered in public because he did. I wouldn't have recorded the song if he hadn't spoken.

Eedris, who has long been compared to Fela Anikulapo Kuti, the Afrobeat icon, stressed that his criticism stems from a deep love for his homeland.

"I'm an ardent Nigerian. I adore this nation. However, he added, "those in positions of authority dislike hearing the truth because it is bitter." "Until we see genuine change, I will continue to speak out for a better Nigeria."

Nigeria Jaga Jaga continues to be a potent reminder of music's timeless significance in activism—and a heartbreaking reflection of a country still striving to achieve its promise—as the sociopolitical environment continues to motivate Nigerian artists to adopt more daring stances.