Nigerian rapper Illbliss has called for greater unity among Nigerians, urging people to stop discriminating against residents who live outside their states of origin.
Speaking during a recent appearance on the Outside The Box podcast, the music star stressed the importance of embracing diversity and recognising the contributions of people from different ethnic backgrounds across the country.
Using Lagos as an example, Illbliss pointed to the significant role played by Igbo traders and entrepreneurs in the commercial growth of the state. According to him, many non-indigenes have invested heavily in the cities where they live and deserve to be treated as valuable members of those communities.
He argued that the economic success of Lagos has been driven by contributions from people across various parts of Nigeria, including thousands of Igbo business owners who have built thriving enterprises and created jobs over the years.
The rapper expressed concern over comments often directed at non-indigenes, especially statements suggesting that people should return to their ancestral states simply because they are not natives of where they reside.
According to him, such attitudes are disappointing, especially in a country where different ethnic groups have lived and worked together for decades.
Illbliss noted that tribal divisions, ethnic prejudice and religious intolerance continue to hold Nigeria back despite the country’s long history as a united nation.
He said Nigerians should focus more on cooperation and nation-building rather than allowing ethnic differences to create unnecessary barriers among citizens.
The rapper further questioned why issues of tribalism and discrimination still dominate public discussions, stressing that a more inclusive society would benefit everyone regardless of their background.
Reflecting on the country’s challenges, Illbliss said the persistent divisions sometimes make him wonder whether Nigeria would have been better positioned if its people were more willing to accept one another beyond ethnic and religious lines.
His comments have sparked conversations online, with many social media users debating the role of unity, diversity and national integration in Nigeria’s development.