By Benjamin Njoku
Veteran songwriter and entrepreneur Bigger Ibekwe, popularly known as Mr Bigger, has released a new hit single titled “JAPAA” to solidify his place in the Nigerian music evangelism terrain.
“JAPAA,” the Yoruba word for emigration, tackles the growing dilemma of Nigerian youths seeking to leave the country in droves.
According to the artist, the song reflects concern over the long-term implications of this mass exodus. With Nigeria’s youths seen as the nation builders and leaders of tomorrow, the track serves as both a subtle and powerful reminder to stay back and contribute to national development. Delivered in an Afrobeat style, the song carries a thought-provoking message while keeping the dance floor energy high.
Mr Bigger, a respected gospel artist, has consistently used his music to address Nigeria’s social issues.
In “One Nigeria,” he pushed for unity and a country free of corruption and nepotism. In “Yahoo-Yahoo,” he condemned internet fraud and the police’s tendency to label every young Nigerian a fraudster. In “Umuaka (Children),” he celebrates childhood and reminds children that “readers are leaders.”
Speaking on why he wrote “JAPAA,” Mr Bigger, also known as Oti-Nkpu Jesus in music evangelism terrain, stressed the need for the government to recognize the danger of losing its able-bodied workforce to other countries.
“Our youths are leaving the country in droves, and nobody seems to care. This song is a wake-up call to our leaders to do something about this devastating trend,” he said. “If we don’t create an enabling environment to keep them here, our regrets will be enormous tomorrow.”
“I’m ready to collaborate with agencies, organizations, and bodies to drive this message home,” he added.
