Why you should not be happy if your song tops streaming platforms in Nigeria — Burna Boy

Grammy Award-winning Nigerian artist, Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has urged fellow artists to reconsider the excitement that comes with topping streaming charts in Nigeria.

In a post shared on his Instagram story on Tuesday, Burna Boy revealed that the financial returns from topping streaming charts in Nigeria are significantly lower compared to other parts of the world.

The ‘Last Last’ crooner pointed out that one million streams in Nigeria earn an artist about $300 to $400, a sharp contrast to the same volume of streams in the UK, US, or Europe, where artists reportedly make between £3,000 to £4,000, $3,000 to $4,000, and €3,000 to €4,000 respectively.

He advised that being number one on Nigerian streaming platforms should not be seen as a major achievement. Instead, he encouraged artists to set higher goals or diversify by exploring other sources of income.

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He wrote, “1000000 Nigerian streams = $300/$400, 1000000 Uk streams = £3000/£4000, 1000000 US streams = $3000/$4000, 1000000 euro streams = €3000/€4000.

“Your song being number 1 on any streaming platform in Nigeria is not something to celebrate. Aim higher or do other businesses on the side. I type with love.”

In another post, he warned artists not to be misled by online polls or support from Nigerian social media users, adding that such virtual engagement rarely translates to real-world support like sold-out shows or international stadium crowds.

“Dear artists, don’t let Twitter polls and “Naija social media fans” deceive you. They won’t fill up any stadium for you in any part of the world.”

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