“It's Not Ambition, It's Poverty” – Seun Kuti States That Hunger Is The Force Behind The Japa Movement

Nigerian singer and activist Seun Kuti has contributed to the ongoing discussion about the phenomenon known as “Japa,” asserting that the increasing inclination to leave Nigeria is primarily motivated by poverty.

The artist expressed his views during a recent livestream, stating that many Nigerians who aim to migrate do so due to difficult economic conditions.

Seun emphasized that poverty significantly influences people’s mindsets and choices, including the perception that leaving the country is the sole avenue to a better life.

Additionally, Seun criticized Wizkid’s fan base, often referred to as FC, by characterizing them negatively. He suggested that their perspectives and beliefs are shaped by their socio-economic backgrounds, which he connected to their endorsement of the concept of “Japa.”

He stated:

“Most of these FC are poor. They are poor children that grew up in poor homes. I cannot blame you because if you grew up in a poor home in Nigeria, there is no way your brain is fully formed. The biggest example of people who grew up in poor homes are the people that believe in Japa. If you believe in japa, it’s because you grew up in a poor home. There’s nobody who grew up in a better house who will japa. You can travel and come back.”

Seun’s comments have elicited a range of reactions online, with some Nigerians opposing his views, while others engage in discussions regarding his broader points about poverty, migration, and the challenges faced by young people in the country.

“Most of these FC are children that grew up in poor homes… The biggest examples of people who grew up in poor home are people wey believe in ‘japa’. Anybody wey japa grew up in a poor home.”
– Seun Kuti pic.twitter.com/z9fNUSG4yo
— @𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗷𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗯𝗼𝘆 (@OneJoblessBoy) February 9, 2026