Abatiade Champions Dance as a Viable Career Path for Nigerian Youth

Nigerian creative powerhouse, Abati Adeotan Abidemi, popularly known as Abatiade, is proving that dancing isn’t just a passion, it’s a profession that can put food on the table. Known for his versatility as an actor, fashion entrepreneur, and social media influencer, Abatiade is also a dedicated dancer who believes the art form holds untapped potential for youth empowerment.

In a recent interview, he expressed his belief that dance goes far beyond entertainment. “Dance has the power to heal and uplift,” he said. “It’s not just something you do for fun. For me, it’s a tool I use to spread joy and connect with people. It can also be a reliable source of income if taken seriously.”

A former recipient of the Best Dancer award at the 2020 KWESU SUG Awards, Abatiade shared his long-term vision of performing on major international stages. He believes that Nigerian dancers can rise to global prominence if given the right platform and support.

However, he was quick to point out the lack of appreciation for dancers in the local industry. “Dancers are often sidelined. We’re not valued as much as other creatives,” he noted. “Only a few get paid well, and that’s usually tied to how large their online following is. We’re at the bottom of the food chain when it comes to pay.”

What keeps him relevant, according to Abatiade, is his ability to evolve. “If you want to stay in the game, you have to be consistent and keep innovating. Social media helps, but originality is what truly sets you apart.”

He also reflected on how his decision to pursue dance was initially met with skepticism by his family. “When I told my mum I wanted to dance professionally, she didn’t take it seriously at first. She asked if I meant traditional dancing,” he recalled. “But when I showed her my videos, she was shocked, in a good way. Now, she’s one of my biggest supporters.”

Abatiade credits popular dancer Poco Lee as a major source of inspiration. “From day one, Poco Lee has motivated me. Seeing someone from my background break barriers has pushed me to dream even bigger.”

For Abatiade, dance is more than movement, it’s a mission.