Burna Boy Describes Nigeria as ‘Collateral Damage,’ Questions Country’s Existence
Nigerian singer Burna Boy has sparked controversy with his recent remarks about the country’s origins, describing Nigeria as “collateral damage” in a broader historical context.
In an interview with Tidal, Burna Boy delved into Nigeria’s colonial past, referring to the nation as a product of the Royal Niger Company, a British trading enterprise. The artist argued that Nigeria was never intended to exist as a country but was instead a business venture aimed at exploiting resources for Britain.
“We weren’t even supposed to be Nigerians in the first place. We are the Royal Niger Company, basically a company for the British to take resources and go for Britain,” Burna Boy stated in a video clip that has since gone viral on social media.
He further elaborated that Nigeria’s formation was the result of a transaction between colonial powers, leaving its people as “collateral damage” in the process.
According to Burna Boy, the current challenges facing Nigerians are deeply rooted in this history of poor governance and external exploitation, which continues to impact the nation today.
His comments have ignited widespread discussion online, with many debating the implications of his views on Nigeria’s colonial legacy and its ongoing struggles.
Watch him speak below.
