Illbliss: Nigerian Government Has Failed Its Youths Woefully

Veteran Nigerian rapper Tobechukwu Melvin Ejiofor, popularly known as Illbliss, has strongly criticised the Nigerian government for what he described as its repeated failure to support and empower the country’s youth.

Speaking on a recent episode of The Real Shareholders podcast, the artist did not hold back in addressing the harsh realities faced by many young Nigerians, describing the situation as “a tough time to be young in Nigeria.”

According to Illbliss, the country’s worsening economic conditions, combined with a lack of strong leadership and misguided social trends, have created a disillusioned generation.

“This generation celebrates not just mediocrity, but also indecision,” he said. “Everything is considered ‘cool’ now – from drug abuse to living recklessly. Many young people are not working, yet feel entitled. It’s a reflection of deeper issues.”

Illbliss went on to share real-life conversations he’s had with young Nigerians, some of whom have resorted to internet fraud and other desperate measures to survive.

“One boy told me, ‘Oga boss, we dey street, we dey press, because government no send.’ Another said his only option was fraud because his salary couldn’t cover the cost of his mother’s cancer medication,” the rapper recounted.

For him, these stories underscore the widespread frustration and emotional fatigue among Nigeria’s youth, many of whom feel abandoned by a system that offers little opportunity or support.

“Young people are mentally defeated. They’re tired. They’re just doing whatever they can to keep going,” he added. “It’s a tough time to be young in Nigeria. It’s a tough time aging in Nigeria. It’s even a tough time to be born in Nigeria.”

Illbliss’s comments add to a growing chorus of voices calling attention to youth disillusionment and the urgent need for reforms that create real opportunities for Nigeria’s next generation.