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Nigerian rapper and music executive Olamide Adedeji has called for greater appreciation of the country's cultural heritage, insisting that traditional practices should not be viewed as evil or treated as something Nigerians should be ashamed of.
The YBNL Nation founder made the remarks while speaking at a private screening of Osun Dagbonu, a film produced by actress Sotayo Gaga. The movie explores themes surrounding African spirituality, destiny and traditional religious beliefs.
In a video shared by Sotayo Gaga on Instagram on Wednesday, Olamide stressed the importance of educating people about the value of their cultural identity and encouraging them to embrace their roots.
According to the rapper, Nigerian traditions have often been misunderstood and unfairly associated with negative beliefs. He argued that efforts should be made to change such perceptions and promote a better understanding of indigenous practices.
He said Nigerians should take pride in their heritage rather than allowing misconceptions to influence how they relate to their traditions.
Olamide also used the Yoruba traditional black soap, popularly known as 'ose dudu', to illustrate his willingness to embrace cultural products and practices.
“Promoting the culture and trying to sensitise people that our culture and tradition are not diabolical and should not be demonised, and we are proud of who we are, our culture, and our heritage. I'm a Yoruba boy. If you give me black soap, I will collect it,” he said.
Black soap is a traditional African skincare product commonly produced using ingredients such as plantain skins, cocoa pods and palm kernel oil. It has remained popular in different communities for bathing and skincare purposes.
The rapper's comments have also drawn attention to the broader conversation about preserving African identity, particularly as younger generations increasingly interact with different cultures and influences.
Olamide has consistently demonstrated his attachment to Yoruba culture throughout his music career. His use of indigenous language in songs has played a significant role in establishing his identity within the Nigerian music industry.
His 2010 breakthrough single, 'Eni Duro', which was largely performed in Yoruba, helped introduce him to a wider audience and established him as one of the prominent voices in indigenous Nigerian hip-hop.
Over the years, he has continued to incorporate Yoruba expressions, street culture and local experiences into his music, earning recognition for his contribution to the growth of indigenous rap.
Meanwhile, Osun Dagbonu explores themes that connect with traditional African beliefs, making the film's screening an opportunity to discuss cultural identity and the perception of indigenous spirituality.
Olamide's position adds to ongoing conversations about the importance of protecting Nigerian traditions, promoting indigenous languages and ensuring that African cultural practices are understood within their historical and social contexts.
His remarks also reinforce the role entertainers can play in encouraging cultural appreciation through their influence and public platforms.
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