Uptown the Maskking Says Africa’s Crisis Is Cultural, Not Financial

Uptown the Maskking, the masked Nigerian musician has called for a cultural and psychological reset across Africa, arguing that the continent’s crisis runs deeper than economics or politics.

Speaking on the Life Before Fame podcast, the artist said Africa’s struggles stem largely from a loss of identity, values, and connection to its own history. According to him, development will remain elusive unless Africans reconnect with what he describes as their “habitat”; a cultural and spiritual grounding that gives societies stability and purpose.

“A lion cannot be king in another man’s habitat,” Uptown the Maskking said. “That is our problem. We are disconnected from our inner energy, and that’s why we are roaming the world helplessly.”

Uptown the Maskking, who holds a doctorate and works within the education system, explained that migration and displacement are not signs of freedom, but symptoms of deeper structural failure. “Comfort is not freedom,” he said. “You can be comfortable and still be a prisoner.”

The musician said his decision to pursue music was deliberate, describing it as a vehicle for expression in a time when what he calls “conscious music” is disappearing. He blamed social media culture and trend-driven entertainment for distracting people from unemployment, poor infrastructure, and declining living standards.

“They give you bling and distractions so you forget you don’t have electricity, water, or jobs,” he said. “You forget you are living in a battlefield.”

Drawing inspiration from the late Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, Uptown the Maskking said musicians must reclaim their role as truth-tellers. “Musicians are philosophers, prophets, and preachers,” he said. “Fela didn’t wait for validation or awards. He spoke the truth.”

He was also critical of African leadership, accusing political elites of perpetuating exploitation left behind by colonial systems. According to him, the problem is no longer white colonialism alone, but what he described as “black colonizers” who have continued systems of extraction and neglect.

“Our hospitals have become mortuaries,” he said. “Not because we lack resources, but because of greed and misplaced priorities.”

Uptown the Maskking argued that Africa has the capacity to feed itself, educate its population, and build industries, but lacks the political will and collective vision to do so. He warned that overreliance on foreign loans and corporations threatens long-term sovereignty.

“Africa must develop Africa,” he said. “No one is coming to save us.”

Looking ahead, the artist said his mask symbolizes curiosity and resistance in a world obsessed with visibility. “Leave the face,” he said. “Follow the sound. Follow the word.”

He added that his music is intended to reflect both Africa’s struggles and its potential, urging listeners to embrace self-education and personal responsibility. “Change must start from ourselves,” he said. “That is the only way Africa moves forward.”