Afrobeats star Skales has triggered heated reactions online after urging young Nigerians to make leaving the country their “biggest dream.”
The singer, born Raoul John Njeng-Njeng, claimed that emigrating abroad is the only realistic path to survival, security, and success for many Nigerian youths.
Taking to his X handle, Skales wrote:
“As a young Nigerian, your biggest dream should be to leave Nigeria so you can survive and actually achieve your dream by at least staying alive.”
The blunt statement immediately ignited fierce debate across social media, with critics accusing the singer of promoting hopelessness, brain drain, and abandoning the country instead of encouraging change.
Many Nigerians slammed the artist for “talking down” on the same nation that made him famous, while others argued that life abroad comes with its own harsh realities, including racism, discrimination, and economic struggles.
One user, JohnBullaSings, fired back:
“This your advice no gel. Just because it worked for you doesn’t mean it’s for everyone. Are you helping solve the problem or adding to it?”
Another commenter, Sally, questioned Skales’ portrayal of life overseas:
“Migrating to white man’s land where your first crime is your skin colour guarantees your security?”
Others insisted Nigeria still holds enormous potential despite its challenges.
Ethealdiadi wrote:
“If we all dream to leave, who remains? Go and come back to build. The work has to be done.”
The controversy adds to growing frustration among Nigerian youths over insecurity, unemployment, inflation, and worsening living conditions, issues that continue to fuel mass emigration popularly known as the “Japa” movement.
