Afrobeat Icon, Femi Kuti Urges Nigerian Youths to Stay and Rebuild the Nation
By Admin, September 17, 2025
Afrobeat icon Femi Kuti had issued a compelling call to Nigerian youths, urging them to channel their energies into rebuilding their homeland rather than joining the growing wave of emigration abroad.
The appeal was made at a Lagos press conference previewing the major exhibition, “Fela Anikulapo-Kuti: Afrobeat Rebellion,” set to run from October 12 to December 28.
Addressing the trend of mass emigration known locally as “Japa”, Kuti, the son of legendary Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti, argued that the flight of skilled professionals is ultimately counterproductive to Nigeria’s progress.
“Everybody wants to travel to America and other countries of the world; nobody cares for their own country,” Kuti stated. “If all the doctors, engineers, and people of influence leave because their country is in bad shape, who is going to build and make Nigeria better then?”
He implored the younger generation to embrace the resilient and patriotic spirit that defined his father’s life.
“I want Nigerian youths to understand Fela’s fight and his love for his country,” he emphasized. “It’s only the youths that can say, ‘this is our country and we want the best for ourselves and our children.’” he emphasized.
Celebrating a Revolutionary’s Enduring Impact
The conference also served to honor Fela Kuti’s profound legacy as the upcoming exhibition promises to be a comprehensive showcase of his life, music, and role as a revolutionary force, featuring an array of archives, music, cinema, talks, workshops, and fashion.
Femi Kuti expressed gratitude for his father’s lasting resonance.
“It’s heartwarming to see Fela’s vision still resonate. People continue to understand what he stood for: freedom, justice, and truth,” he said.
Following a highly successful Paris run in 2022 that attracted over 60,000 visitors, the Lagos edition is set to be even more immersive, featuring expanded archives and direct involvement from the Kuti family.
The exhibition garnered significant support, highlighting Fela’s global influence.
Laurent Favier, Consul-General of the French Embassy, reaffirmed France’s long-standing admiration for the artist.
“France has long been a champion of Fela’s music and activism. In the 1980s, he captivated the French press, sparking the ‘Fela phenomenon,’’ Favier said. “This exhibition reflects our ongoing cultural partnership with Nigeria, built on mutual respect.”
Curator Seun Alli, Founder of June Creative Art Advisory, explained the exhibition’s goal to present a fuller picture of Fela beyond the stereotypes:
“This exhibition repositions him as a public intellectual whose music and philosophy challenged oppression and inspired hope across Africa and beyond.” sge explained.
The hosting role of Ecobank was underscored by Omoboye Odu, the bank’s Head of SMEs, Partnerships, and Collaborations.
“Fela’s legacy is a global treasure. Hosting Afrobeat Rebellion at EPAC is a proud moment, celebrating Africa’s creative resilience,” Odu stated.
The 10-week cultural program is organized by the Whitespace Creative Arts (AWCA) Foundation, with support from the French Embassy in Nigeria, the Kuti family, and Ecobank.
