For many years, singers and musicians in Nigeria have made songs about their country. These songs protest against how badly people live in Nigeria and what the government is doing. Many of these artists use their songs to tell the government when they think it’s not doing a good job. They sing about what they want the government to do better.
There are lots of songs that protest against the problems in Nigeria. These problems have been happening for a long time. Some songs talk about problems from years ago, while others talk about current issues.
We have chosen 10 special songs from all these songs about Nigeria’s problems. These 10 songs are very powerful. When people listen to them, they might feel like they want to change things in Nigeria to make life better.
These songs are called “timeless” because even though some of them are old, they still matter today. They can make people think about how to improve their country, no matter when the songs were made.
Here are 10 Nigerian protest songs that should be on your protest playlist.
1. Fela Anikulapo Kuti – International Thief Thief (ITT)
Fela Anikulapo Kuti, the Afrobeat pioneer, is well-known for his outspoken criticism of the military governments that ruled Nigeria with a heavy hand. He has several songs that address government corruption and speak to the conscience of Nigerians.
One of his most impactful songs, “ITT”, is a direct indictment of the corrupt practices within the Nigerian government. This song inspires anger and sustains the current efforts to change the system for the better.
2. Majek Fashek – Police Brutality
The famous artist, Majek Fashek, recorded “Police Brutality” in 1988 to highlight the violence that Nigerian security forces inflicted on the people.
Even decades later, police brutality remains a serious issue, as seen in the #EndSARS movement, which is perhaps Nigeria’s largest civilian mass protest.
This song still resonates today as it draws attention to the ongoing struggles faced by Nigerian youths and the broader population.
3. Lagbaja – Suruu Lere
Lagbaja, a legend in Afrobeats, created the classic song “Suruu Lere”, which captures the many challenges that have prevented Nigerians from fully enjoying the benefits of democracy.
The song serves as a reminder that even after 63 years of independence, Nigeria is still grappling with issues like corruption, tribalism, and poverty.
“Suruu Lere” is a call to action, urging Nigerians to demand better from the corrupt leaders who have put the country in its current state.
4. Eedris Abdulkareem – Jaga Jaga
When Eedris Abdulkareem released “Jaga Jaga”, it struck a chord with Nigerians and quickly became a hit. The song was so influential that it was banned on radio and even drew criticism from then-President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Despite being released 18 years ago, “Jaga Jaga” still reflects the state of Nigeria today, with increasing poverty and a continued decline in living standards. The lack of progress since 2004 should inspire listeners to demand meaningful change.
5. 2Baba – 4 Instance
2Baba, a prominent Nigerian musician, released “4 Instance in 2006 to criticize the high level of corruption and poor governance in the country.
The song is a reminder that, despite the passage of time, little has changed. Politicians still treat the public purse as their private property, and this song encourages people to reflect on the ongoing issues in Nigeria.
6. Asa – Jailer
Asa’s song Jailer is a powerful reminder of the metaphorical jail that Nigeria has become, where citizens are trapped in psychological, economic, social, and religious constraints.
This song urges listeners to free themselves from the ideological, economic, and religious chains imposed by the political elite. “Jailer” is a call for self-liberation and resistance against oppression.
7. African China – Mr. President
“Mr. President” by African China remains as relevant today as it was when it was released in 2006. The song serves as a reminder to Nigeria’s political leaders to govern justly and ensure that justice, fairness, and equity prevail, regardless of status, religion, or creed.
Sixteen years later, “Mr. President” still reflects the unfulfilled hopes of Nigerians and the persistent issues that have not been addressed.
8. Wande Coal – Shey Na Like This?
Wande Coal’s song “Shey Na Like This?” succinctly captures the dire state of Nigeria and the daily hardships Nigerians face due to poor governance.
The song is a reminder that positive change will not come by merely hoping for it; instead, people must rise up and demand it. This song encourages listeners to take action and not remain passive in the face of adversity.
9. Sound Sultan featuring MI Abaga – “2010”
“2010” by Sound Sultan, featuring MI Abaga, was released in anticipation of a year that was hyped as a turning point for Nigeria when citizens were promised basic amenities and good governance. However, 2010 came and went with little change.
“2010” reflects the disappointment of Nigerians who were sold a vision of a functional society that never materialized.
10. Burna Boy featuring M.anifest – Another Story
“Another Story” by Burna Boy, featuring M.anifest, expresses the frustration of Nigerians who have grown tired of hearing the same empty promises from politicians every election cycle.
Since Nigeria’s independence in 1960, leaders have repeatedly pledged to transform the country into a paradise, yet the reality has remained far from those promises.
If you are fed up with the status quo, and you’re inspired to demand real change from the government, these protest songs are for you.
OdumoduBlvck recently praised Mavin Records founder Don Jazzy in an interview with Beats FM.
The rapper discussed his latest project, “Nothing Changed,” a collaborative effort with the Anti-World Gangsters crew. The album features Don Jazzy on the track “Asampete.”
OdumoduBlvck revealed that after recording “Asampete,” he felt the song would benefit from Don Jazzy’s contribution. When approached, Don Jazzy readily agreed to the request.
During their meeting, Don Jazzy not only added his vocals to the song but also surprised OdumoduBlvck with a generous gift of $10,000.
Impressively, Don Jazzy declined any royalties for his contribution to the track.
“When I went to his house to get his vocals, he gave me $10,000 and even my friend was asking me why he gave me such a huge amount of money,” he narrated in the interview.
OdumoduBlvck further praised Don Jazzy, describing him as the most original personality in the Nigerian music industry and a true icon.
“There’s nobody more original than Don Jazzy…The way the younger artists look up to Burna Boy, Davido, Wizkid, and Olamide today is how they used to look up to Don Jazzy”.
OdumoduBlvck’s praise for Don Jazzy’s generosity and influence on the Nigerian music industry echoes sentiments expressed by numerous artists whose careers have been shaped by the Mavin Records boss.
Four-time Grammy nominee Davido has credited Don Jazzy and D’banj’s flamboyant lifestyle for inspiring him to relocate to Nigeria and pursue his musical aspirations.
Don Jazzy’s philanthropic endeavours also continue to make headlines. Recently, he donated a substantial sum of 100 million naira to Very Dark Man’s charity.
Tems, a global music sensation, has solidified her position as one of Africa’s most successful artists, with her album captivating millions of fans worldwide and garnering numerous prestigious awards.
In a recent testament to her talent, her debut album secured the second spot on Billboard’s list of the best R&B albums of 2025.
This remarkable achievement places Tems alongside renowned artists such as Chris Brown, PartyNextDoor, Muni Long, and Bryson Tiller.
Furthermore, Billboard has praised Tems’ music for transcending the boundaries of Afrobeats, resonating with audiences across the globe.
“The Nigerian star finds her footing in the global spotlight and stands firmly in her purpose on her dazzling debut album Born in the Wild.
“She opens up about surviving her mental wilderness and learning to thrive in it on the opening acoustic ballad that shares the album’s title.
“And on the mid-tempo standout “Burning,” Tems confronts the trappings of her newfound stardom but finds comfort in the collective struggle. As someone who’s studied Céline Dion, Destiny’s Child, and Mariah Carey and dreamt of making soul-stirring songs that send people into their feelings, Tems succeeded with aplomb.
“Born in the Wild became her highest-charting project on Top R&B Albums (reaching No. 5) and marked her career-first entry on the Billboard 200, peaking at No. 56.
“And while Born in the Wild and “Love Me JeJe” earned Tems 2025 Grammy nominations for Best Global Music Album and Best African Music Performance, respectively, her best R&B song nod for “Burning” further reinforced the rich diversity of her music– and the notion that African artists like Tems cannot be bound to the catchall “Afrobeats” term, as their music has traveled well past the borders of the continent. – H.M.”
Tems’ debut album, “Born In The Wild,” received critical acclaim in the United States.
Indeed, the album earned a Grammy nomination for Best Global Album.
Additionally, her single “Burning” broke records by securing a nomination for Best R&B Song. Meanwhile, “Love Me Jeje” received a nomination for Best African Music Performance.
Adekunle Gold marks a significant milestone this December 2024 as he celebrates 10 years since releasing his breakthrough single ‘Sade.’
This debut track, which creatively reimagined One Direction’s ‘Story Of My Life,’ catapulted him into Nigeria’s mainstream music consciousness in December 2014.
The artist recently shared compelling details about his journey to stardom in an industry interview, particularly highlighting his unique path to signing with YBNL.
Before his musical breakthrough, Adekunle Gold cultivated a professional relationship with Olamide through his work as YBNL’s graphic designer, creating cover art for the label’s artists, including Lil Kesh and Viktor.
The pivotal moment in his career arrived when producer Pheelz discovered ‘Sade’ and advocated for Gold’s signing to Olamide, leading to a transformative partnership with YBNL.
Under the label’s guidance, Gold released his debut album, ‘Gold,’ which produced standout hits like ‘Orente’ and ‘Pick Up,’ earning both critical acclaim and commercial success.
AG Baby, as fans affectionately call him, has demonstrated remarkable artistic versatility throughout his decade-long career.
He began his journey by crafting a distinctive urban interpretation of folk and traditional Yoruba music, later evolving into a dynamic pop star with the release of ‘Afro-pop Vol 1.’ His musical portfolio now spans five albums, each showcasing his growth and artistic range.
The singer-songwriter has established himself as one of Nigeria’s most accomplished artists, earning recognition for his exceptional songwriting abilities and commanding stage presence.
His performances continue to captivate audiences across Africa, solidifying his position as a leading figure in the continent’s music scene.
Gold’s journey from a graphic designer to a celebrated musician exemplifies his artistic versatility and dedication to his craft, marking him as one of Africa’s most sought-after performers.
