‘Religion Hasn’t Improved Nigeria’ – 9ice Sparks Debate Over Prayers and Progress
Nigerian singer 9ice has stirred controversy after claiming that religion and prayers have not contributed meaningfully to Nigeria’s development.
Speaking at a recent event, the artist, whose real name is Alexander Adegbola Akande, questioned the impact of long-standing religious practices in the country, despite frequent calls for citizens to pray amid ongoing economic and security challenges.
According to him, Nigeria has not seen significant progress despite widespread devotion across both Christianity and Islam. He also criticised what he described as an overreliance on prayer for issues that require practical solutions.
9ice further compared Nigeria to countries like the United Kingdom, arguing that less religious societies appear to be more structured and prosperous. He suggested that many Nigerians prioritise religious activities over productivity, particularly during weekends.
The singer, who has previously described himself as a traditionalist, has been vocal about his personal beliefs. In a past interview, he revealed that he turned to traditional practices after what he claimed was a spiritual health challenge that was eventually resolved through indigenous means.
His comments have since sparked mixed reactions, with some agreeing with his stance on the need for more action-driven solutions, while others have criticised his remarks as dismissive of deeply held religious values.
