In a recent appearance at the Global Citizen NOW event in New York, Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr opened up about the profound impact of Nigeria’s unreliable electricity on her upbringing. She expressed that consistent access to power would have significantly altered her life trajectory.
The singer, whose real name is Oyinkansola Aderibigbe, recounted how the lack of stable electricity stunted her educational progress and career aspirations, while also affecting her family’s income-generating activities. She shared that her grandmother, who sold tomatoes and pepper, was forced to sell produce quickly due to the absence of refrigeration, a challenge that taught her resilience.
“Every child in Nigeria has experienced some form of electricity problem,” Starr remarked. She recalled assisting her grandmother with the perishable goods, noting that the harsh conditions shaped her into the person she is today. She emphasized that having electricity—such as an air conditioner or even a fan—while studying after school would have made a world of difference.
Starr urged African leaders to prioritize resolving the continent’s electricity crisis, asserting that every child deserves access to basic amenities like reliable power for proper development. Her candid remarks highlight a systemic issue that continues to hinder millions across the region.